Some celebrations are worth the price of a plane ticket.
BY CAITLIN MORTONNovember 3, 202
We’re all for cozying up with loved ones at home, but we also love seeing how cities around the world transform every December. The best places to spend Christmas, in our book, run the gamut from European towns with storybook Christmas markets to Asian megacities with over-the-top light displays—and even merry mainstays right here in the U.S. And in case your idea of a perfect holiday includes lounging by the pool with a cocktail, we’ve included some spots in the southern hemisphere where temperatures hover in the 80s on December 25.
While the jollity may look a bit different from city to city, these global destinations keep the holiday cheer going year after year. And if you already have your plans solidified for this upcoming season, it’s never too early to start planning a fabulous winter vacation for 2024.
This gallery has been updated since its original publish date.
All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Asheville, North Carolina
Why we go: Holiday spirit is serious business in the Blue Ridge Mountains town of Asheville. After all, the Biltmore opened its doors on Christmas Eve in 1895 and the annual decorations include 100 Christmas trees, 25,000 ornaments, 10,000 holiday lights, and 1,200 poinsettias. (Good luck deciding whether to take a daytime tour or visit on a candlelit evening.)
The one thing to get you in the spirit: The North Carolina Arboretum, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, twinkles with its mile-long Winter Lights experience.
Stay here: The Enchanted Christmas package at Biltmore includes a stay in a room decorated for the holidays, plus four-course Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meals.
Basel, Switzerland
Why we go: Most European countries are known for their Christmas markets, and Switzerland is no exception. You can find seasonal cheer in nearly every city and town, though Basel earns a few extra points for having two markets: one in Barfüsserplatz, and one in Münsterplatz. Here you can find hundreds of vendors selling handmade goods and treats from their stands, as well as plenty of twinkling lights and decorations.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: As long as you aren’t afraid of puppets, the special Christmas performances at the Basler Marionetten Theater will definitely get you in the proper spirit.
Stay here: Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois is a Belle Epoque classic with an enviable address right on the banks of the Rhine.
Berlin, Germany
Why we go: Germany is known around the world for its many Christmas markets—its capital city alone has more than 60 of them, including the incredibly picturesque WeihnachtsZauber, which is surrounded by landmarks like Französischer Dom and the Konzerthaus. Between market visits, travelers can enjoy the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants, buzzing nightclubs, and edgy museums well into the new year.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: From November to January, Berlin’s Botanic Garden transforms into a yuletide wonderland with light sculptures and illuminations.
Stay here: Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is one of the city’s most classic stays—and it’s just a 15-minute walk from the WeihnachtsZauber market.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Why we go: For the past three decades, the little town of Bethlehem in Pennsylvania has channeled its name and transformed into “Christmas City” for the holidays. Celebrations are centered around the Christkindlmarkt at the SteelStacks, with more than 50 booths featuring artisan crafts, as well as live music and special events with Santa Claus himself.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: A “live” advent calendar at the Goundie House on Main Street features a downtown merchant emerging from the door at 5:30 p.m. every night with treats for all who are waiting.
Stay here: Hotel Bethlehem is a wonderland of its own, with 35,000 Christmas lights, 36 wreaths, life-sized toy soldiers, and a gingerbread house of the hotel.
Bruges, Belgium
Why we go: Europe’s best-preserved medieval city oozes charm year-round, but especially during the holidays. It’s hard to imagine a place more magical as you wander the cobblestone streets, admire the shimmering lights, and warm up with mugs of Belgian hot chocolate in cafés.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Follow the Winter Glow light trail with stops at 10 installations through the historic part of the city center, including lights at the Church of Our Lady Tower and a projection at Gruuthuse.
Stay here: Grand Hotel Casselbergh (steps away from the Markt) has inviting touches like exposed wooden beams in the rooms, a lobby bar with a fireplace, and a wellness center located in a 16th-century cellar.
Cape Town, South Africa
Why we go: If you’re looking to escape winter during Christmas, you can’t do much better than Cape Town—it’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere, after all. You can even visit one (or several) of the South African city’s holiday markets without having to wear a coat and scarf.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: They’re not exactly Santa’s elves, but the estimated 2,000 to 3,000 African penguins at Boulders Beach—where you can get close enough to take portrait-mode photos of them—are sure to warm your heart just the same.
Stay here: The light and breezy rooms sitting above the Atlantic Ocean at Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa are the perfect antidotes to the winter blues.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Why we go: According to the World Happiness Report, Denmark is one of the world’s happiest countries, making it a great place to spend the holidays. Things are even jollier at Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, where antique amusement park rides decorated with lights are surrounded by yet another adorable, alpine village-style Christmas market selling gifts and snacks. The park has also been known to deck out its tree with Swarovski crystals.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Book a table at Restaurant Vita for some andesteg, a traditional Danish holiday dish of crispy, succulent roast duck served with prunes and apples.
Stay here: Never mind hygge—Hotel Sanders takes Danish comfort and contentment to new heights.
Dubai, UAE
Why we go: Dubai does Christmas the same way Dubai does nearly everything—in true, over-the-top fashion. Catch the tree lightings happening around town, including the ones at Towers Rotana, Fairmont The Palm, and The Irish Village, and then watch the jolly ol’ St. Nicks making a run for it at the Santa Run. And since no visit to Dubai is complete without several shopping sprees, set aside time to stock up on goodies at one of the city’s Christmas markets.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dubai Mall is an air-conditioned winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink and indoor ski slopes at Ski Dubai.
Stay here: Jumeirah Al Naseem earns high marks for its posh rooms, easy beach access, and superior dining and spa options.
Dublin, Ireland
Why we go: If your idea of Christmas merriment includes an authentic Irish pub crawl (we get it), then Dublin is your place. There’s no better way to warm up on a cold Christmas night than with some black pudding and a few pints—and trust us, this city has enough cozy bars to last you through New Year’s. But the Irish capital isn’t just about drinking, of course. Holiday offerings include Christmas markets, decked-out shops on Grafton Street, and tree-lighting ceremonies galore.The one thing to get you in the spirit: For 66 years, The Moving Crib in St. Martin Apostolate’s basement has been charming families with its mechanical figures depicting scenes like Noah’s Ark.Stay here: The Westbury becomes even more luxurious during the holidays, with prime views overlooking the lights of Grafton Street during afternoon tea.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Why we go: Warming up with whisky is reason enough to visit, but Edinburgh’s seasonal offerings extend far past booze. There’s also the sprawling holiday market at East Princes St. Gardens, skiing at Pentland Hills Regional Park, and ice skating at St Andrew Square. Traditionally the Christmas season is followed by the Hogmanay Festival—a three-day bacchanal celebrating the New Year, with outdoor concerts, fireworks, and dancing Scots.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Dine at Edinburgh Castle, which is known to host Christmas lunches (yes, really).
Stay here: If it’s views you’re after, you can’t do much better than The Balmoral, which overlooks the Old Town and Edinburgh Castle.
Gdańsk, Poland
Why we go: When the holidays roll around, the warm and cozy feel of this storybook port city goes into overdrive, especially for the month-long Christmas Fair. Highlights include advent windows, a magical snow globe, a sleigh ride flight simulator, and a speaking elk.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Take a break from the food and drink booths to ride the two-floor Gdańsk carousel.
Stay here: Standing next to the railway station, the Craft Beer Central Hotel Gdańsk lets you continue the merriment into the night at the in-house brewery.
Hong Kong, China
Why we go: Hong Kong’s yuletide urban offerings rival that of NYC’s, with holiday markets, window displays, and concerts galore (they even have a Santa Con). Then there are the lights. The Symphony of Lights show—held nightly at 8 p.m.—will leave you breathless, thanks to an extravagantly choreographed neon show displayed across more than 40 of the city’s iconic skyscrapers along Victoria Harbor.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Experience the Symphony of Lights during a harbor-front dinner cruise.
Stay here: As if the Ritz-Carlton wasn’t swanky enough, the hotel hosts Christmas parties, dinners, and afternoon teas all season.
Inari, Finland
Why we go: While most tourists flock to the Lapland city of Rovaniemi come Christmas, we suggest heading even further north (like, within reach of the Arctic Ocean north) to the village of Inari. Located in the heart of the scenic Ivalo region—reachable via a 1.5-hour flight from Helsinki—Inari is a pure winter wonderland dotted with hotels and restaurants that keep things nice and cozy. It’s hard to imagine a more authentic winter holiday than one spent riding dog sleds, feeding reindeer, and chasing the Northern Lights.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: A private Northern Lights safari will have you sitting in a heated sleigh and sipping sparkling wine while waiting for the aurora to dance. (Rough life, huh?)
Stay here: Finnish Lapland is known for its glass-igloo accommodations, as well as in-house winter activities and cozy, panoramic cabins at Aurora Village. (Heated windows ensure the snow doesn’t cover your view.) Plus, daily reindeer feedings are available.
London, UK
Why we go: Christmas in London has timeless appeal—chalk it up to the decorated Georgian townhouses, lively pubs, and a dash of Dickensian charm. Our step-by-step guide to spending the holidays in London covers the perfect place for afternoon tea, a steak to tuck into after a day spent gift shopping, and a martini to sip on Christmas Eve—and that’s just for starters.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: One of the most magical experiences is gliding around the frozen 18th-century courtyard of Somerset House, a sprawling neoclassical building off the Strand.
Stay here: Claridge’s—because there’s no better place to ring in Christmas than in one of the best hotels on the planet.
Málaga, Spain
Why we go: Located in southern Spain, Málaga really goes all out for the holidays. The lights along Calle Larios are some of the best in town, lit in late November and kept on through December. Other can’t-miss activities include the Christmas markets, massive nativity scenes, and free concerts at Plaza de la Constitución.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Verdiales Music Festival on December 28 is one of the city’s biggest seasonal attractions, and definitely the most unique. All day, visitors can watch competing couples don extravagant costumes and practice different forms of verdiales, the regional flamenco dance.
Stay here: A Málaga institution since 2009, Finca Cortesin sets the standard for Andalusian hotels with its sumptuous design and vast swimming pools.
Montreal, Canada
Why we go: Love the idea of a European holiday but hate the idea of a transatlantic flight? Enter Montreal. With most of the cold-averse tourists flocking south for the winter, Canada’s chicest city reveals its true personality with cozy French restaurants, high-end shopping (hello, last-minute presents), and over-the-top festivals.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Celebrate Christmas with mass at Notre-Dame Basilica, arguably one of the most gorgeous churches in the world. (Celine Dion got married here, so you know it’s good.) Note that the Basilica does charge admission for the service, so make sure to reserve your tickets in advance.
Stay here: Located a block away from both Notre-Dame Basilica and the Nutcracker Market at Palais des Congrès, Hotel Place d’Armes is as convenient as it is aesthetically pleasing.
New York City, New York
Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Rockefeller Center, window shopping on Fifth Avenue, or lurking around 34th street hoping to witness a miracle.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: There’s no such thing as going overboard with Christmas decorations in Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights neighborhood. Join a walking tour, organized by the area’s residents.
Stay here: The Plaza, full stop. (If it’s good enough for Kevin McCallister…)
Paris, France
Why we go: Can you really think of a more magical place to spend Christmas than Paris? The city provides festive activities at every turn, from the light installations on the Champs-Elysées to any number of pop-up markets and ice skating rinks. Even if you don’t feel like shivering out in the cold, warming up with a mug of hot chocolate at Angelina will still get you in the spirit.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Whether you gawk at the window displays outside or the massive Christmas tree inside, Galeries Lafayette is well worth elbowing a few fellow tourists to check out.
Stay here: Hôtel Lutetia is a Left Bank stunner with gourmet holiday menus and an Art Deco lobby decked out with lights and trees. Upgrade to a higher room category for oversized bathtubs and balconies overlooking the Eiffel Tower
Park City, Utah
Why we go: As if the world-class skiing isn’t reason enough to visit Park City this winter, the town also happens to be a wonderful place to spend Christmas. The former Olympic city has ample opportunities for skiing, fly fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding—with no shortage of resorts to warm up in between runs.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hop on a 90-minute train ride with the North Pole Express at Heber Valley Railroad, where you can sip hot cocoa and meet Mrs. Claus.
Stay here: The 12-room Washington School House is just a hop away from Park City’s lit-up Main Street, and we must say its Christmas decorations are some of the prettiest we’ve ever seen.
Prague, Czech Republic
Why we go: Prague’s holiday markets easily make the city one of the world’s best places to spend Christmas: They run for a full month, with locals and travelers passing through for mulled wine, sticky pastries, and roasted ham. The main markets take place in the Old Town and Wenceslas squares, just 10 minutes apart by foot—and are set to the backdrop of some of the prettiest Gothic architecture you’ll ever see.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sip on Svařák, a Czech mulled wine with a citrusy touch from a market stall. Or for a sweeter taste, indulge in a hot chocolate at Cafe Slavia, founded in 1881.
Stay here: Aria Hotel is located within walking distance of Prague Castle, and its music-themed suites are always a hit.
Quebec City, Canada
Why we go: Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America, and its colonial French architecture gives it an unmistakably European feel. The cobbled streets of the Old Town are packed with quaint shops and delicious bistros, all merrily decorated for the holidays.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Au 1884 toboggan run by Château Frontenac (open from mid-December to mid-March) is one of the city’s oldest traditions—and quite the thrill. Zoom down icy tracks overlooking the city on a wooden sled reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.
Stay here: You can’t go wrong with Auberge Saint-Antoine and its lobby fireplace, heated bathroom floors, and a Christmas package that includes a five-course dinner, holiday movie screenings at the in-house theater, and a personal visit from Santa in your room.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Why we go: Who says Christmas has to be about ugly sweaters and hot cocoa? December in Rio is all about enjoying an icy caipirinha on a spectacular beach—with daily temperatures hovering in the 80s. The city also happens to host the world’s largest display of full-sized nativity scenes during its annual Festival de Presépios (“Crib Festival”), found at Jardim de Alah between Leblon and Ipanema.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: For the very best display in town, ride a bike around the Rodrigo Freitas Lagoon and enjoy views of the world’s largest floating Christmas tree from every angle.
Stay here: The Fasano Hotel along Ipanema beach has an infinity pool overlooking the ocean that will make winter seem very, very far away.
Rome, Italy
Why we go: The streets around Rome will be festively alight, sure, but the home to the seat of Catholicism is an excellent option for folks seeking a more sacrosanct Christmas experience.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hear hymns echoing off the walls of the 1,900-year-old architectural marvel during midnight mass at the Pantheon (December 24 into the 25th).
Stay here: Aside from classically designed guest rooms, Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese offers festive amenities like themed dinners at the rooftop restaurant and chauffeured tours of Rome’s holiday lights in a vintage Fiat 500.
Salzburg, Austria
Why we go: It’s no surprise that Salzburg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old City that served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song. With roots dating back to the 15th century, sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and market stands. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: It’s literally Christmas all year round at the Christmas in Salzburg shop on Goldgasse, known for its frilly ornaments (especially those hand-painted on eggshells).
Stay here: Hotel Goldener Hirsch is just steps away from Christkindlmarkt, although we’d be fine staying in these comfortable rooms all day.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Why we go: Christmas in San Miguel de Allende kicks off on December 12 (aka Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe), and the rest of the month is equal parts solemn and celebratory. You may encounter nativity scenes and church services one day, then parades and fireworks the next. But seeing as it all takes place in one of the friendliest, most beautiful cities in the world, we’re guessing you’ll be able to easily enjoy every moment.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Between December 16 and 24, most of Mexico participates in Las Posadas, a religious festival honoring the Nativity story. Once a day, two people dressed up as Mary and Joseph lead a procession to a different home and ask to be let inside (as in the biblical journey to Bethlehem), and the reenactment typically ends with carols, food, and pinatas.
Stay here: The city has its share of swank hotels, but it’s hard to compete with the spa amenities and rooftop bar at Rosewood San Miguel de Allende.
Sibiu, Romania
Why we go: Visiting the Gothic castles and dense forests of Transylvania on a bright summer day is great. But visiting when the mountains are quieted by snow and the sky has a bleak, wintry haze to it? Way more appropriate. The town of Sibiu is particularly lovely during the holidays, with a glittery Christmas market complete with 100 merchants, an ice rink, and a Ferris wheel.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sibiu’s markets offer a variety of treats, but be sure to sample some kürtőskalács—a Transylvanian “chimney cake” consisting of hollow spirals of sweet dough topped with sugar, walnuts, or coconut.
Stay here: About a 90-minute drive outside of Sibiu, Bethlen Estates is a collection of vacation houses that opened a few years ago. The properties—including the Saxon-style cottage Depner House—have already established themselves as some of the best places to stay in the Romanian countryside.
Strasbourg, France
Why we go: Strasbourg is home to the oldest of France’s Christmas markets, dating back nearly 450 years. There are 12 in total to check out, which is sure to keep you busy. Pro tip: Though the markets will be full of delicious goodies, many choose to indulge in the king of Alsatian delicacies—foie gras, which is also a French Christmas tradition.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: The superlative market sits beneath the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, the tallest surviving structure built entirely in the Middle Ages. How’s that for a photo op?
Stay here: We’re huge fans of the impossibly luxurious Hôtel Les Haras, installed in Louis XV’s historic stables in Strasbourg.
Sydney, Australia.
Why we go: You haven’t seen Christmas lights until you’ve seen Sydney’s Christmas lights. Plus, the holiday season lasts an entire month here (take that, 12 days of Christmas) with “Sydney Christmas.” The festival features the city’s largest Christmas Tree at Martin Place.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Wonder at the 3,500 twinkling lights at the Strand Arcade or the 85,000 twinkling LEDs at the incredible Pitt Street Mall Canopy of Light.
Stay here: Celebrate with a Christmas Day lunch followed by a nap by the rooftop pool (remember, it’s summertime Down Under) at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour.
Taipei, Taiwan
Why we go: December 25 isn’t a public holiday in Taipei, but it’s still one of the best places to spend Christmas, as the city celebrates with incredible lights displays, festive attractions, and events. During the weeks between mid-November and the New Year, pretty much the entire Banqiao District transforms into Christmasland—which is exactly what it sounds like. We’re talking massive Christmas trees, rides, concerts, and markets selling local goods.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Don’t miss the Christmasland section over in the Fuzhong Business district, with a magic forest and Boshou light park.
Stay here: We love the Mandarin Oriental for its decadent decor and wide range of food options.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Why we go: Due to the Georgian Orthodox Church’s use of the Julian calendar, Christmas isn’t officially celebrated in Tbilisi until January 7. Decorations and festivities start much earlier, however, with city-wide light displays, Christmas markets, and musical performances ready to dazzle visitors starting in December.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: Located in Tbilisi’s Freedom Square, the Liberty Monument (which depicts Saint George slaying a dragon) is covered with cascading lights to create a massive makeshift Christmas tree.
Stay here: The cozy-chic vibes at Stamba Hotel are unparalleled—think buttery leather sofas, lush hanging plants, and floor-to-ceiling shelves of vintage books.
Tokyo, Japan
Why we go: The city turns the voltage up each year with its winter illuminations, with different districts competing to create some truly sensational displays. Standout illumination sites include the almost 10-foot-tall snow globes with falling snow at Tokyo Midtown and a massive Baccarat crystal chandelier at Yebisu Garden Place. The bright lights are so popular, they stay up well past Christmas day—often through January or February.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: One of the most famous illuminations is the Blue Cavern (Ao no Dokutsu) in Shibuya, which is inspired by the blue grottos of the Mediterranean.
Stay here: Aman Tokyo, a two-time Gold List winner, has a multi-level spa and deep furo soaking tubs in each room.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Why we go: Vilnius becomes a true winter wonderland in December, with a Christmas train that weaves through Old Town, 3D nativity stories projected onto buildings, and Christmas markets in the city’s squares.
The one thing to get you in the spirit: The headline-making Christmas trees are no joke. This year’s main tree was designed to look like a giant multi-layered birthday cake to honor the city’s upcoming 700th anniversary.
Stay here: The warm and inviting Grand Hotel Kempinski Vilnius is as close to all the Christmas delights as you can get.
