Magical Christmas Holiday Destinations for Winter 2025

At this time of year, countless Christmas holiday destinations beckon with twinkling lights, festive markets and magical winter experiences that will enable you to create unforgettable family memories.

Are you dreaming of swapping your living room for a snow-covered wonderland or perhaps a sunny beach escape this festive season? Planning ahead for Winter 2025 gives you plenty of time to craft that perfect Christmas getaway.

From fairytale European cities with traditional Christmas markets to unexpected tropical getaways, the best places to travel to for Christmas all offer something magical for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a classic white Christmas or a unique Christmas holiday spot where you can escape the cold, this guide has you covered.

A family Christmas abroad might seem a daunting prospect at first, but the shared experiences and new traditions you’ll create together make it worth every effort. Additionally, travelling during the festive season adds an extra layer of wonder as destinations worldwide showcase their unique holiday celebrations.

Our handpicked selection of 23 of the best family Christmas destinations combines iconic festive hotspots with surprising gems that promise to make your Winter 2025 truly special. Let’s explore where you could be unwrapping presents this year!

Vienna, Austria

Vienna transforms into a snow globe wonderland during the festive season, offering an enchanting Christmas holiday spot for those seeking European charm.

Why visit Vienna, Austria

Vienna in winter presents a magical setting where cold becomes a kind of warmth – flowing from golden-lit cafés and music swirling out of historic stone buildings. The city shines brightest from late November through February, with December showcasing the celebrated Christmas markets. Furthermore, the elegant streets glow with sophisticated white, red and green holiday displays that continue until mid-January.

Top Christmas experiences in Vienna, Austria

Christmas markets remain Vienna’s crown jewel, with the famous Christkindlmarkt on Rathausplatz running from 16th November to 26th December 2025. Notably, other magnificent markets include:

• Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market (6th November 2025-6th January 6 2026) featuring traditional handicrafts in an imperial setting
• Art Advent on Karlsplatz, showcasing unique arts and crafts
• Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung, dating back to 1772

Each market offers warming drinks, roasted chestnuts and handcrafted decorations. Beyond markets, visitors can enjoy Vienna’s classical concerts in the city’s historic churches.

Where to stay in Vienna, Austria

Accommodation options span all budgets, from luxury choices like The Park Hyatt Vienna and Hotel Rathausplatz to mid-range boutique hotels such as Hotel Josefine. Budget travellers can select Wombats Hostel or BASSENA Wien properties.

New York City, USA

The concrete jungle of New York sparkles with extraordinary holiday magic, making it one of the most iconic Christmas holiday destinations in the world.

Why visit New York City, USA

New York City at Christmas time shimmers with twinkling lights, falling snowflakes and vibrant crowds that create an electric atmosphere. Millions of visitors flock to experience the city’s transformation into a winter wonderland. Moreover, the holiday season showcases New York’s ability to blend classic traditions with modern celebrations, perfect for families seeking an unforgettable Christmas abroad.

Top Christmas experiences in New York City, USA

The city offers countless festive activities, such as:

• The towering Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree adorned with over 50,000 LED lights and topped with a crystal-heavy Swarovski star
• Ice skating at multiple rinks including Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Roebling Rink, Central Park’s two rinks or beneath the tree at Rockefeller Centre
• Holiday markets at Bryant Park Winter Village (featuring over 180 vendors), Union Square (with more than 185 vendors) and Grand Central Terminal
• Must-see performances including the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular and George Balanchine’s ‘The Nutcracker’ at Lincoln Centre
• The spectacular holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue

Where to stay in New York City, USA

For accommodation, The Plaza stands out as it transforms overnight on Thanksgiving, allowing guests to wake up to complete Christmas decorations. The hotel offers seasonal packages including a six-foot Christmas tree in your room and special holiday-themed afternoon tea.

Tokyo, Japan

Unlike traditional Western celebrations, Tokyo reinvents Christmas with dazzling illuminations and unique traditions, offering an alternative Christmas holiday spot for adventurous travellers.

Why visit Tokyo, Japan

While Christmas isn’t a religious holiday in Japan, Tokyo embraces the festive spirit through spectacular light displays that transform the city into a winter wonderland. The illumination season typically runs from November to February, creating a magical atmosphere throughout the metropolis. Despite business continuing as usual on Christmas Day, the commercial aspects – shopping, dining and elaborate decorations – make Tokyo particularly appealing for families seeking an unconventional Christmas abroad.

Top Christmas experiences in Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo’s Christmas celebration features these standout experiences:

• Mesmerising illuminations including Tokyo Midtown’s ‘MIDTOWN CHRISTMAS’ with bubble and snow displays, Roppongi Hills’ glowing tree tunnel and Blue Cave SHIBUYA with approximately 500,000 blue lights
• German-inspired Christmas markets supported by the German Tourism Association, featuring mulled wine, sausages and a 14-metre Christmas pyramid
• Tokyo Disneyland’s Christmas transformation (11th November-25th December), complete with special parades, “Jingle Bell Jamboree” at Country Bear Theatre, and holiday-themed merchandise
• The unique Japanese tradition of KFC for Christmas, with special “Christmas dinner packages” making up one-third of KFC Japan’s annual sales

Where to stay in Tokyo, Japan

For accommodation, luxury hotels offer special Christmas experiences. The Mandarin Oriental Tokyo provides easy access to Marunouchi’s festive lights, although advance booking is essential as Japanese couples often reserve rooms for romantic Christmas stays.

Cape Town, South Africa

For a sun-soaked Christmas holiday completely opposite to the Northern Hemisphere experience, Cape Town delivers a unique summer festive season beneath the shadow of Table Mountain.

Why visit Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town shines as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, especially during December when summer temperatures create a festive atmosphere with a distinctly African twist. The city transforms with decorations, delicious food and gifts, all while offering the chance to celebrate Christmas on pristine beaches or amid stunning mountain scenery.

Top Christmas experiences in Cape Town, South Africa

Summer Christmas activities include:

• Adderley Street’s Festival of Lights, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, features afternoon concerts and stalls selling food and handcrafted gifts
• Numerous Christmas markets from November to December, including Cape Gift Market, Skeppend Kersmark (28th November–21st December) and Tyger Valley Festive Market (15th November–28th December)
• Carols by candlelight at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden (12th-15th December), a 30-year tradition attracting over 20,000 visitors annually
• Magical Christmas storytelling at hotels like Cape Grace, along with festive biscuit decorating and special Santa visits
• Christmas Day picnics at Kirstenbosch Gardens or outdoor cinema screenings under the stars

Where to stay in Cape Town, South Africa

The iconic Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, recognised in The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 (position 73), offers timeless elegance since 1899, making it perfect for a luxury Christmas holiday. Alternatively, Cape Grace provides special Christmas Eve in-room deliveries of milk, cookies and bedtime stories.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik glows with ethereal Northern Lights dancing above its festive streets, making this Arctic capital one of the most enchanting places to spend Christmas for those seeking winter wonder.

Why visit Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland’s capital transforms into a magical winter wonderland from mid-November, with streets adorned in soft, golden lights against long winter nights. The city’s festive spirit builds gradually, gathering momentum until Christmas Eve. Beyond decorations, Reykjavik offers the remarkable chance to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), appearing in various colours and forms throughout winter.

Top Christmas experiences in Reykjavik, Iceland

The city’s Christmas celebrations include:

• Christmas markets throughout December, including the charming Hafnarfjörður Christmas Village with vendors in cosy wooden cabins
• The Oslo Christmas tree tradition in Austurvöllur Square since 1951, officially lit on the first Sunday of Advent
• Meeting Iceland’s 13 Yule Lads – mischievous characters who appear one by one before Christmas, leaving gifts in children’s shoes
• New Year’s Eve fireworks, where 200,000 people create an epic display – best viewed from Hallgrímskirkja church

Where to stay in Reykjavik, Iceland

Hotel Klettur offers comfortable accommodation within walking distance of Laugavegur shopping street and Hallgrímskirkja church. Alternatively, stay in the Old Harbour neighbourhood for a quieter experience yet still within walking distance to downtown attractions.

London, England

London’s dazzling Christmas lights create a magical tapestry across the capital, establishing it as one of the finest Christmas holiday destinations for festive illumination seekers.

Why visit London, England

The British capital bursts into festive glory from November until early January, with streets gloriously decked out for Christmas. Even the most Scrooge-like visitors cannot deny London’s magical transformation once Christmas lights appear and tinsel-covered trees greet you at every turn. Throughout December, the entire city glows with over 40 major light installations, creating an electric atmosphere perfect for a family Christmas abroad.

Top Christmas experiences in London, England

The city offers remarkable seasonal attractions, including:

• Oxford Street’s sustainable shining stars brightening the skies
• Regent Street’s magnificent spirits glittering above the entire length for the 10th year
• Covent Garden’s gigantic gold bells, baubles and mirror balls illuminating the 19th-century piazza
• Festive ice skating at Somerset House’s spectacular courtyard
• Christmas markets at Leicester Square, Southbank Centre and Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

Where to stay in London, England

London’s prestigious hotels create extraordinary Christmas displays. Claridge’s features a 16-ft tree designed by fashion names like Burberry’s Daniel Lee, accordingly becoming a must-visit destination. The Dorchester, positioned near Winter Wonderland, goes all-out with Christmas trees gracing the facade and lobby. Overall, The Savoy offers a Victorian-inspired “Frosted Fair” complete with mulled wine and Laurent-Perrier Champagne.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan blends tropical warmth with colonial Christmas charm, making this Puerto Rican capital an ideal Christmas holiday spot for those seeking festive celebrations without winter weather. It has proven to be one of the most popular all inclusive Christmas holiday destinations in recent years but there are myriad accommodation options to choose from to suit every budget and preference.

Why visit San Juan, Puerto Rico

The “Island of Enchantment” takes on a special glow during the holiday season, with Old San Juan’s impressive streets becoming a Christmas paradise. Puerto Rico’s Christmas, known as “Navidad,” typically begins after Thanksgiving and extends into January, making it one of the longest holiday seasons globally. This vibrant capital combines colonial charm with modern amenities and golden beaches – perfect for families seeking both history and nightlife.

Top Christmas experiences in San Juan, Puerto Rico

The city offers a range of distinctive festive activities:

• Parrandas – Puerto Rico’s version of carolling where friends surprise each other with musical instruments and traditional holiday songs
• Aguinaldos – Similar to holiday carolling, involving singing and receiving small gifts
• Lighted Boat Parade – Hosted by a local yacht club in mid-December, best viewed from spots near the water
• Christmas mass at one of the oldest churches in the Western Hemisphere, followed by traditional Christmas food at local restaurants

Where to stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Fairmont El San Juan Hotel transforms into a holiday wonderland with enchanting decorations, magnificent Christmas trees and twinkling lights. Alternatively, you may prefer La Concha Resort, which recently unveiled a $15 million renovation while maintaining its historic character, or the boutique Hotel El Convento in Old San Juan for luxury in a historic setting.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s fairytale architecture transforms into a winter wonderland, crowning it among the most magical Christmas holiday destinations in Europe for those seeking authentic festive traditions.

Why visit Prague, Czech Republic

The Czech capital enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings illuminated by festive decorations from late November till early January. The city brims with Czech Christmas spirit, subsequently drawing tourists worldwide to experience traditional celebrations firsthand. Evenings glow with Christmas markets that have been ranked among the world’s most beautiful.

Top Christmas experiences in Prague, Czech Republic

• Christmas Markets: The main markets at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square operate daily from 29th November 2025 to 6th January 2026, featuring a magnificent 26-metre Christmas tree with 95,000 LED lights, traditional handicrafts and Czech delicacies
• Cultural Traditions: Experience Czech Christmas dinner (carp with potato salad) on 24th December or witness the tree lighting ceremony held daily at 16:30, 17:30, 18:30, 19:30, 20:30, and 21:30
• Festive Performances: Enjoy Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker at the National Theatre, reimagined with elements from A Christmas Carol

Where to stay in Prague, Czech Republic

Hotels near Old Town Square provide easy access to the markets, hence making Grand Hotel Praha and Ventana Hotel Prague excellent choices for families seeking Christmas abroad.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney dazzles as a sun-kissed Christmas holiday destination where festive spirit meets golden beaches, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional winter celebrations.

Why visit Sydney, Australia

Sydney sparkles with a unique Christmas atmosphere in summer, where temperatures hover around 30°C The Harbour City buzzes with holiday energy as locals embrace festive traditions under blue skies. Indeed, the blend of cultural festivities adds distinctive charm, with illuminated street decorations throughout December creating a magical summer Christmas experience.

Top Christmas experiences in Sydney, Australia

Extraordinary seasonal activities abound:

• Martin Place Christmas Tree – the tallest in the Southern Hemisphere – featuring over 110,000 LED lights and a 3.4-metre colour-changing star
• Darling Harbour’s 10-metre floating Christmas tree (from 21st November) plus spectacular fireworks on weekends
• Christmas Day at Bondi Beach – a backpacker institution where Santa makes an appearance after a long night in the sleigh
• The Rocks Christmas Markets: Christmas Edition (weekends during 6th-21st December) offering handmade crafts, jewellery and festive chocolates

Where to stay in Sydney, Australia

The Langham Sydney provides elegant accommodation near The Rocks, featuring a stunning pool ceiling painted with Southern Hemisphere constellations. Alternatively, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour offers prime position for holiday festivities with an infinity pool to cool off from summer Christmas celebrations.

Zagreb, Croatia

Croatia’s capital shines as Europe’s premier Christmas holiday destination, earning the prestigious “Best Christmas Market” title three years in a row from 2016 to 2018.

Why visit Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb captivates visitors as the entire city transforms into a winter fairytale from late November until early January. Rather than concentrating festivities in one location, the city hosts around 25 individual Christmas markets spread throughout its squares and streets. Throughout December, the air fills with the scent of cinnamon, cloves and mulled wine as twinkling lights dance to the rhythm of Christmas songs.

Top Christmas experiences in Zagreb, Croatia

• Christmas Markets: Explore the main market at Ban Jelačić Square with its light canopy and giant red ornaments or visit Zrinjevac Park with its illuminated trees and heart-shaped garlands
• Grič Tunnel: Once a WWII bomb shelter, this 360-metre tunnel transforms into a Christmas wonderland with stunning light displays
• King Tomislav Square: Home to Zagreb’s iconic open-air ice-skating rink, a staple of the city’s Christmas celebrations
• Festive Food: Sample regional delicacies like fritule (small fried dough balls dusted with powdered sugar), kobasice (homemade pork sausages), and warming kuhano vino (mulled wine)

Where to stay in Zagreb, Croatia

Hotel Esplanade Zagreb offers luxury accommodation plus the “Oleander Terrace” food market featuring upscale dining options. Equally excellent is MANDA Heritage Hotel, providing modern rooms in a central location with outstanding value.

Aspen, Colorado, USA

Aspen gleams as a premier alpine Christmas holiday resort where snowy luxury meets festive mountain charm, creating an enchanting winter playground for holiday seekers.

Why visit Aspen, Colorado, USA

This renowned mountain town shines brightest during winter, offering world-class skiing alongside festive celebrations. Throughout December, Aspen transforms into a magical alpine wonderland with snow-covered peaks and twinkling lights. Beyond skiing, visitors enjoy a vibrant arts and culture scene plus over 80 restaurants serving everything from casual burgers to sophisticated cuisine paired with expertly crafted cocktails.

Top Christmas experiences in Aspen, Colorado, USA

The festive season offers numerous magical experiences:

• 12 Days of Aspen (20th-31st December) features family-friendly activities including ice skating, meeting Santa, cookie decorating, storytelling and s’mores by the fire
• Wintersköl (12th-14th December) showcases on-mountain activities, concerts, a craft beer fest, torchlight descent, bonfire and fireworks
• Christmas Eve/Day Dinners at renowned establishments like ELEMENT 47 (four-course meal at $365), AJAX TAVERN (family-style Italian fare at $225) or PROSPECT AT HOTEL JEROME ($155)
• Outdoor activities beyond skiing include ice skating at Silver Circle, Lewis Ice Arena or Snowmass Base Village plaza (with free skate rentals)

Where to stay in Aspen, Colorado, USA

Luxury accommodation options include The Little Nell – Aspen’s only five-star, five-diamond ski-in/ski-out hotel featuring a cherished Tree Lighting ceremony. Alternatively, The St. Regis Aspen Resort offers heated outdoor pools overlooking Aspen Mountain, plus the RAKxa Wellness Spa. For moderate luxury, The Gant provides beautiful grounds with outstanding staff and well-appointed rooms.

Christmas Holiday Destinations – Which Will You Choose?

Our specially selected ideas for where to spend Christmas have hopefully given you some food for thought and maybe even got you seriously considering going on holiday for Christmas. It’s a great way of combining a restorative getaway with festive family celebrations and with some careful planning you’re bound to have the time of your lives together. Merry Christmas!