The Christmas season brings a special kind of magic to cities worldwide. With twinkling lights, festive markets, and unique traditions, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences during the most wonderful time of the year. Whether you love wandering through Christmas markets, enjoying winter shows, or marvelling at stunning decorations, here are some of the best places to immerse yourself in holiday cheer.
New York: A Winter Wonderland
New York City may be known for its cold winters, but there’s no place quite like it at Christmas. If you’re lucky, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-covered streets, adding to the festive atmosphere. The Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree, adorned with thousands of lights, is a must-see. Just a few steps away is the iconic ice skating rink, where you can glide under the giant tree.
For those looking to stay warm indoors, New York offers plenty of festive activities. Catching a Broadway show during Christmas is an unforgettable experience. Favourites like The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, featuring the Rockettes, never fail to entertain. You can also explore indoor attractions like the holiday displays at Macy’s Herald Square or browse the many pop-up Christmas markets like the one at Bryant Park.
London: A city Bathed in Christmas Lights
London during Christmas is nothing short of magical. Its streets come alive with dazzling decorations, and none shine brighter than Regent Street and Bond Street. These famous shopping streets are draped with elegant lights, creating a festive glow that draws visitors from around the world. Major department stores like Fortnum & Mason and Selfridges go all out with window displays that are true works of art.
Things to do during Christmas in London include visiting Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, a sprawling fair with Christmas markets, ice skating, and carnival rides. The Southbank Centre’s Winter Market is another great place to pick up holiday gifts while sipping mulled wine. If you’re a fan of festive shows, head to the West End for Christmas performances like A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker.
Hong Kong: A Festive Fusion of East and West
Hong Kong’s skyline and vibrant cityscape are impressive year-round, but during Christmas, the city’s fusion of East and West creates a unique holiday experience. The city is adorned with elaborate decorations, particularly in areas like Tsim Sha Tsui and Central. Victoria Harbour glows with a spectacular Symphony of Lights, enhanced by seasonal displays that add a touch of Christmas magic.
Christmas markets also pop up throughout Hong Kong, with the one at Stanley Plaza offering festive food, drinks, and gifts. You can also enjoy Christmas fairs or indulge in a festive meal at one of the city’s many world-class restaurants. Hong Kong’s pleasant Christmas temperatures, ranging between 17°C to 20°C, make it perfect for exploring the city comfortably.
Montreal: A Cozy Christmas in Quebec
Montreal's old-world charm and European-style streets make it one of the coziest places to spend Christmas. Despite the cold, the city’s heartwarming decorations and outdoor Christmas markets offer the perfect reason to wrap up warm. The Montreal Christmas Market at Place Jacques-Cartier is a festive haven, featuring local crafts, traditional foods, and holiday performances.
If you're in the mood for indoor activities, Montreal also has a lot to offer. Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica for its stunning Christmas concert or explore the Botanical Gardens’ Christmas displays. With plenty of cozy cafés and bistros, Montreal is an ideal spot to enjoy a hot chocolate or festive meal after wandering through the snow-dusted streets.
Bruges: A Fairytale Christmas
With its cobbled streets and medieval architecture, Bruges is like a scene out of a storybook, especially at Christmas. This Belgian city becomes even more magical when it’s decked out with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The Bruges Christmas Market at Market Square offers a quintessential European Christmas experience, complete with traditional foods like Belgian waffles and mulled wine.
Bruges’ canals are surrounded by sparkling lights, and the horse-drawn carriage rides through the old town provide a cozy way to take in the sights. There are also plenty of shops selling handmade crafts and chocolates, making Bruges a perfect destination for gift shopping.
Salzburg: Home of Silent Night
Salzburg, the birthplace of Silent Night, is a picture-perfect Christmas destination. This Austrian city feels like stepping into a snow globe, with its baroque architecture, snow-covered rooftops, and traditional markets. The Salzburg Christkindlmarkt, located at the foot of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, is one of the oldest in Europe and is known for its artisanal gifts, local treats, and carol singers.
Salzburg also offers Christmas concerts and events in its many churches, filling the air with festive music. The annual Winterfest is another popular event, featuring circus performances and Christmas shows in the Volksgarten.
Colmar: A Storybook Christmas in Alsace
Colmar, in the Alsace region of France, looks like it was made for Christmas. The entire town seems to glow under a blanket of lights, and the half-timbered houses are beautifully decorated. Colmar’s Christmas markets are a must-visit, with several spread across the city. Each has its own character, offering everything from gourmet food and wine to handmade gifts and toys.
You can also take part in guided tours of the city’s holiday lights or enjoy boat rides along the canal. With its medieval charm and magical atmosphere, Colmar is one of the most enchanting places to celebrate the season.
Paris: A Sophisticated Christmas
Paris is known for its elegance, and this sophistication extends into its Christmas celebrations. The Champs-Élysées and Galleries Lafayette are beautifully decorated, with Galleries Lafayette’s enormous Christmas tree being a seasonal highlight. Paris is also home to numerous Christmas markets, with the one at La Défense being among the largest in the city.
Enjoy a Christmas cruise along the Seine or warm up with a festive meal at one of Paris’ many fine restaurants. If you love theatre, don't miss out on one of the city’s many Christmas-themed shows or ballet performances.
Prague: A Medieval Christmas Dream
Prague is a stunning city year-round, but its medieval architecture lends a particular charm during Christmas. The Old Town Square hosts one of Europe’s best Christmas markets, with a giant Christmas tree at its centre. Traditional Czech foods like trdelník and hot mulled wine are readily available, and the stalls sell beautiful handmade crafts.
Prague’s Gothic churches offer a wonderful backdrop for Christmas concerts, and the festive atmosphere is enhanced by the city’s picturesque snow-covered streets.
Sibiu: A Hidden Christmas Gem in Romania
Sibiu, Romania, may not be as famous as other Christmas destinations, but it boasts one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Located in the city's Great Square, Sibiu's Christmas Market is filled with local crafts, delicious foods, and festive performances. The beautiful Baroque buildings surrounding the square add to the charm, making this a hidden gem for holiday travellers.
With its combination of Christmas fairs, cozy winter atmosphere, and traditional Romanian hospitality, Sibiu offers an authentic and unforgettable Christmas experience.
No matter where you choose to spend Christmas, each of these destinations offers something magical and unique. Whether you’re exploring festive markets, marvelling at dazzling decorations, or attending Christmas shows, these cities will fill you with holiday cheer. Visit our flights page and book your ticket for a Christmas getaway to remember!
