Our guide on the Bucket List Christmas Destinations around the world for your next visit.
The Christmas season is one of the most magical times to travel, with cities and towns around the world transforming into festive wonderlands. Whether you want to experience the charm of a European Christmas market, see snow-covered landscapes, or enjoy unique holiday traditions, these bucket list destinations are perfect for celebrating the holiday season.
These bucket list Christmas destinations offer something for everyone, whether you’re seeking a traditional European Christmas market, a snowy winter escape, or a unique cultural celebration. From the magic of New York City and the festive spirit of Vienna to the enchanting landscapes of Lapland and the Northern Lights, each destination brings its own charm to the holiday season. Plan your trip to one of these magical places to experience the joy and wonder of Christmas around the world!
Here’s a guide to some of the best Christmas destinations around the world.
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Bucket List Christmas Destinations Around the World
1. New York City, USA
Why Visit:
New York City is synonymous with Christmas, thanks to its iconic landmarks, festive displays, and vibrant holiday spirit. The city comes alive with towering Christmas trees, ice skating rinks, and world-famous window displays.
What to Do:
See the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: One of the most famous Christmas trees in the world, this massive tree is lit up with thousands of lights and is a must-see.
Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center or Central Park: Glide under the city’s iconic skyline at one of its most famous rinks.
Holiday Window Displays: Stroll along Fifth Avenue and admire the elaborate, festive window displays at department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy’s.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Watch the iconic Rockettes perform in this beloved Christmas show.
2. Lapland, Finland
Why Visit:
Lapland is the ultimate Christmas destination for those looking to experience a true winter wonderland. Located in the Arctic Circle, Lapland is home to Santa Claus, snowy landscapes, and endless opportunities for outdoor winter activities.
What to Do:
Visit Santa Claus Village: Located in Rovaniemi, Santa Claus Village is a magical experience for all ages, where you can meet Santa himself and cross the Arctic Circle.
Reindeer and Husky Sleigh Rides: Enjoy a sleigh ride through snowy forests, pulled by reindeer or huskies.
Stay in an Igloo or Ice Hotel: Spend a night in a glass igloo or an ice hotel under the Northern Lights for a truly unique experience.
Northern Lights: Lapland offers some of the best opportunities to see the Aurora Borealis, especially during the long winter nights.
3. Vienna, Austria
Why Visit:
Vienna is a city of elegance and charm, especially during the Christmas season. Its traditional Christmas markets, classical concerts, and beautifully decorated streets make it one of the best places in Europe to celebrate the holidays.
What to Do:
Visit the Christmas Markets: Vienna is home to some of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets, including the Christkindlmarkt in front of the Rathaus (City Hall) and the market at Schönbrunn Palace.
Attend a Classical Concert: Enjoy a Christmas concert or a performance of The Nutcracker in one of Vienna’s historic venues, such as the Vienna State Opera or Musikverein.
Sip on Glühwein: Warm up with a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine) while strolling through the festive markets.
Explore the Belvedere Palace: Visit the Christmas market at Belvedere Palace, where the baroque architecture serves as a stunning backdrop.
4. Strasbourg, France
Why Visit:
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg boasts one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. The city is a blend of French and German culture, which adds a unique flavor to its Christmas celebrations.
What to Do:
Explore the Strasbourg Christmas Market: Dating back to 1570, this market is one of the most traditional in Europe, offering handmade crafts, decorations, and regional foods.
See the Grande Île: Strasbourg’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its half-timbered houses and winding streets make for a perfect Christmas setting.
Try Alsatian Delicacies: Sample local specialties like pain d’épices (gingerbread) and flammenkueche (a pizza-like dish).
Admire the Illuminations: The city is illuminated with beautiful Christmas lights, particularly around Place Kléber, home to a towering Christmas tree.
5. Nuremberg, Germany
Why Visit:
Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, and Nuremberg hosts one of the best. The city’s Christkindlesmarkt is renowned for its festive atmosphere, handmade goods, and traditional foods.
What to Do:
Visit the Christkindlesmarkt: One of the most famous Christmas markets in the world, it features wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, decorations, and local treats.
Indulge in Gingerbread and Glühwein: Nuremberg is known for its Lebkuchen (gingerbread), a must-try during the holiday season. Pair it with Glühwein for the full experience.
Watch the Opening Ceremony: The market opens with the arrival of the Christkind, a symbolic angel-like figure who presides over the market.
Explore the Old Town: The medieval architecture of Nuremberg adds to the festive atmosphere, especially when covered in lights and snow.
6. Quebec City, Canada
Why Visit:
Quebec City offers a European-style Christmas experience without leaving North America. Its charming Old Town, cobblestone streets, and festive lights make it feel like a scene from a Christmas card.
What to Do:
Visit the German Christmas Market: The Marché de Noël Allemand brings the charm of a European Christmas market to Quebec City, with wooden stalls, mulled wine, and traditional treats.
Explore Old Quebec: Wander through the snowy streets of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the Christmas decorations and festive lights.
Stay at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac: This iconic hotel looks even more magical during the holiday season, and it offers spectacular views of the city.
Enjoy Winter Activities: Go ice skating at Place d’Youville, try tobogganing at the Dufferin Terrace, or explore the city’s winter carnival activities.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Why Visit:
Prague’s stunning architecture and festive holiday atmosphere make it one of the most picturesque Christmas destinations in Europe. The city is filled with Christmas markets, classical music, and delicious winter treats.
What to Do:
Visit the Old Town Square Christmas Market: This market is set against the backdrop of the famous Astronomical Clock and the Church of Our Lady before Týn, making it one of the most beautiful in Europe.
See the Prague Castle Christmas Market: Located within Prague Castle, this smaller market offers a cozy, festive atmosphere.
Attend a Classical Concert: Prague is known for its classical music, and during the Christmas season, there are plenty of concerts in venues like the Rudolfinum or St. Nicholas Church.
Try Traditional Czech Christmas Foods: Sample local specialties like trdelník (a sweet pastry) and vánočka (Christmas bread).
8. Reykjavik, Iceland
Why Visit:
Reykjavik offers a unique Christmas experience with its long nights, festive lights, and Nordic traditions. The city’s cozy charm and proximity to natural wonders make it a great holiday destination.
What to Do:
See the Christmas Lights: The dark winter nights in Reykjavik are illuminated with festive lights throughout the city, creating a magical atmosphere.
Meet the Yule Lads: Iceland has 13 mischievous Yule Lads who visit children during the holiday season. Learn about these quirky figures and their roles in Icelandic folklore.
Take a Northern Lights Tour: December offers great opportunities to see the Northern Lights, and Reykjavik is an ideal starting point for a viewing tour.
Visit the Christmas Village in Hafnarfjörður: Just outside Reykjavik, this charming village offers a market, festive activities, and local crafts.
9. London, England
Why Visit:
London goes all out for Christmas with festive decorations, markets, and entertainment. From skating rinks to theater performances, there’s something for everyone during the holiday season.
What to Do:
See the Christmas Lights: London’s Christmas light displays are famous, especially along Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden.
Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park: This massive Christmas fair features rides, ice skating, a market, and plenty of festive food and drinks.
Explore Christmas Markets: Visit the Southbank Centre Winter Market and the Leicester Square Christmas Market for festive shopping and treats.
Watch a Christmas Show: London’s West End offers plenty of holiday-themed performances, from A Christmas Carol to The Nutcracker.
10. Tokyo, Japan
Why Visit:
While Christmas isn’t a traditional holiday in Japan, Tokyo goes all out with festive lights, decorations, and unique cultural twists on the holiday season.
What to Do:
See the Winter Illuminations: Tokyo is famous for its winter light displays, especially in areas like Roppongi Hills, Shibuya, and Tokyo Midtown.
Eat Christmas Cake: In Japan, a light, fluffy Christmas cake topped with strawberries and whipped cream is a popular holiday treat.
Visit Tokyo Disneyland: Experience the magic of Christmas at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea, where the parks are transformed with holiday decorations, parades, and events.
Stroll Through Ginza: Ginza, Tokyo’s luxury shopping district, is beautifully decorated for the holidays and is perfect for gift shopping and festive sightseeing.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.