Christmas is one of the most awaited holidays of the year, and people look forward to this joyful time. Many Christmas holiday destinations worldwide celebrate the holidays with great pomp and show.
There are many Christmas holiday destinations for families, friends, and loved ones. Similarly, Christmas is an exquisite time for a romantic break. The festive decorations and twinkling lights magnificently create a romantic atmosphere. The magic spread everywhere makes every moment joyful with the ones you admire.
The silent night gives you some quality time to nurture yourself and embrace the beauty of nature. The blog features 12 wonderful Christmas holiday destinations you can plan for your next adventure. Moreover, if you wish to know more about the best places to go for the Christmas holiday, read more.
Why Should You Look for Christmas Holiday Destinations?
Christmas holiday destinations are always popular among the holiday crowds as they get to explore new places. In addition, every place has unique Christmas traditions and you will find them interesting. You may like them so much that the following year, you might adopt these traditions in your family.
Furthermore, Christmas is a fantastic time to spend with your near and dear ones. It is the perfect time to go on holiday with your family. You can savour the seasonal delicacies and shop from Christmas markets. Sipping hot chocolate, munching roasted nuts, sledging or skiing on the snow-covered mountains, and more are some popular Christmas specials.
Moreover, some places promote Christmas sun holidays for you to chill under plenty of sun. So if you are not in the mood for a showy Christmas holiday, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Escape to a hot destination and enjoy the Xmas sun holidays.
1. New York, USA
When it comes to Christmas holiday destinations, New York is undoubtedly one of the top places to consider visiting. There are numerous reasons that make it an excellent place during the holiday season. The festive decorations, twinkling lights, Christmas carolers, cheering holiday spirit, and more uplift the holiday mood. New York will be the perfect place to enjoy Christmas with family and friends.
The entire place is covered in a cherishing landscape with lots of picturesque window displays. You can shop for handmade gifts and try festive delicacies. In addition, the tall Christmas trees are beautifully decorated and are the centre of attraction of many best places to go for the Christmas holidays. You should also enjoy ice skating in Rockefeller Center as it is one of the most-loved activities in New York.
5 Best Places to Visit in New York
- Rockefeller Center
- Central Park
- Times Square
- Bryant Park Winter Village
- Dyker Heights
5 Things to Do in New York
- Visit the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree.
- Ice skate at the Bryant Park Winter Village.
- Admire the holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue.
- Watch the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.
- Explore the Christmas markets.
Temperature during Christmas
During Christmas, the temperature in New York typically ranges from a minimum of -3°C to a maximum of 7°C.
Flight Duration from the UK
The flight duration from the UK to New York is approximately 7 to 8 hours.
2. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is one of the magical Christmas holiday destinations where you can go for a romantic holiday. The festive lights, events, and holiday decorations make the entire atmosphere quite romantic. Christmas is not just a holiday in Edinburgh, it’s a wonderful feeling filled with love, laughter, and lots of lights. The Christmas markets are astonishingly decorated where you can shop handcrafted goods and try Scottish delicacies from the food stalls.
Edinburgh Castle’s walls are illuminated with light displays. Also, a torchlight procession is one of the unique events here. Some other events that are popular in Edinburgh are the Night Light switch-on, Carol Concerts, The Castle of Light, and more. Theatrical festive performances and lively concerts are some popular old traditions in Scotland’s Christmas. The pubs are open to entertain the guests with their hearty meals. Drinks like mulled wine, hot chocolate, whiskey, etcetera are highly recommended to keep yourself warm and enjoy the festive warmth.
5 Best Places to Visit in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle
- Arthur's Seat
- Royal Mile
- Holyrood Palace
- National Museum of Scotland
5 Things to Do in Edinburgh
- Visit the Edinburgh Christmas Market at East Princes Street Gardens.
- Enjoy the Winter Light Trail at the Royal Botanic Garden.
- Experience the Castle of Light at Edinburgh Castle.
- Attend a festive concert at St. Giles’ Cathedral.
- Join the Hogmanay New Year's Eve celebrations.
Temperature during Christmas
The temperatures of Edinburg range between a minimum of -4°C and a maximum of 8°C during Christmas.
Flight Duration from the UK
Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes is the estimated flight duration from the UK to Edinburgh.
3. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is one of the best places to visit during Christmas. The festive vibes, local traditions, vibrant markets, holiday events, and more are the highlights. You can learn about Berlin’s Christmas traditions and culture on walking tours where the tour guides will explain everything. You can visit some of the popular tourist landmarks like the Berlin Cathedral, Charlottenburg Palace, and Brandenburg Gate. The holiday markets and holiday traditions are a lot more enjoyable than you think. Visit the markets and shop for lovely souvenirs.
The nightlife of Berlin is quite popular and during Christmas, the vibe reaches to the next level. You can enjoy concerts, experience cabaret, watch Christmas shows, and be a part of Christmas gatherings in the lively atmosphere. Other than that, Christmas dinners at Charlottenburg Palace are the highlight of Berlin. You should go there and enjoy a 3-course meal along with a live concert.
5 Best Places to Visit in Berlin
- Brandenburg Gate
- Berlin Cathedral
- Charlottenburg Palace
- Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market
- Alexanderplatz
5 Things to Do in Berlin
- Visit the Christmas markets at Gendarmenmarkt and Alexanderplatz.
- Ice skate at Potsdamer Platz.
- Enjoy a festive concert at the Berlin Cathedral.
- Explore the illuminated Berlin Botanical Garden.
- Take a Christmas lights tour around the city.
Temperature during Christmas
A minimum of -1°C and a maximum of 4°C is the estimated temperature of Berlin during Christmas.
Flight Duration from the UK
The flight from the UK to Berlin takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
4. Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavik is one of the special Christmas holiday destinations. Have fun in this holiday wonderland and enjoy the festive vibes along with the Northern lights. It is the peak holiday season in Reykjavik and you will find plenty of snow. The colourful sky showcases the natural phenomenon of magical lights. In addition, the fireworks make the surroundings even more fascinating.
Take a walking tour to encounter the best places to go for the Christmas holiday and admire the scenic decorations. You can learn about Iceland’s history and its holiday traditions. Overall, Reykjavik is one of the perfect Christmas holiday destinations for families, especially kids who love the environment. Ice skating at Ingólfstorg Square will be a fun activity to consider for both adults and kids.
5 Best Places to Visit in Reykjavík
- Hallgrímskirkja
- Perlan
- Harpa Concert Hall
- Laugavegur
- Tjörnin
5 Things to Do in Reykjavík
- Visit the Christmas markets at Ingólfstorg and Hljómskálagarður.
- Go ice-skating at Ingólfstorg Square.
- Enjoy a festive concert at Harpa Concert Hall.
- Take a Reykjavík Christmas Walking Tour.
- Hunt for the Icelandic Yule Lads around the city.
Temperature during Christmas
Reykjavík typically experiences cold weather during Christmas with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -2°C and a maximum of 4°C.
Flight Duration from the UK
The flight will take approximately 3 hours to reach from the UK to Reykjavik.
5. Finnish Lapland, Finland
Finnish Lapland is one of the most unique Christmas holiday destinations for families. The Santa Claus Village is a must-see attraction of Lapland and is quite popular among kids. The festive lighting, snow-covered trees, and makes this place the winter wonderland of the Arctic. Adding on, it is a wonderful place to discover Northern lights. The sky looks beautiful when the colourful dancing lights charm the surroundings. Christmas Eve porridge is a famous tradition in Finland where people eat porridge and one of the bowls contains a hidden almond. Whoever finds the almond will be showered with great fortune.
The most interesting thing about Finnish Lapland is its unique accommodations. You can stay in an igloo for the complete Arctic experience. Husky sledging, reindeer safari, and snowmobile rides are some fun outdoor activities that people love to do here. Moving on, the Christmas dinners are an entirely different experience here. You will relish the divine taste of the holiday meal that includes some popular dishes.
5 Best Places to Visit in Finnish Lapland
- Santa Claus Village
- Levi Ski Resort
- Rovaniemi
- Saariselkä
- Kemi SnowCastle
5 Things to Do in Finnish Lapland
- Visit Santa Claus in Santa Claus Village.
- Go on a reindeer safari.
- Experience a husky sled ride.
- Stay in a glass igloo and watch the Northern Lights.
- Enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna.
Temperature during Christmas
During Christmas, the temperature in Finnish Lapland typically ranges from a minimum of -12°C to a maximum of -1°C.
Flight Duration from the UK
The flight duration from the UK to Finnish Lapland is approximately 4 hours.
6. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a phenomenal place to enjoy Christmas. The capital of Hungary is known for its architecture and stunning holiday destinations. You can explore many of the best places to visit during Christmas. Moving on, the Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market is one of the best holiday markets in Europe. The festive atmosphere, enchanting decorations, Hungarian traditions, seasonal treats, and local crafts are the highlights of this market.
You can explore the nearby attractions in a tuk-tuk or e-scooter. Also, the trams are beautified with festive decorations and you should definitely take a ride. The thermal baths are highly recommended in Budapest. The hot bath will help you rejuvenate in the snowy atmosphere. Moreover, the Danube dinner cruise is a charming cruise where you can see the city’s colourful lights.
5 Best Places to Visit in Budapest
- St. Stephen's Basilica
- Buda Castle
- Vörösmarty Square Christmas Market
- Fisherman's Bastion
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath
5 Things to Do in Budapest
- Visit the Christmas markets at Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen's Basilica.
- Take a Christmas dinner cruise along the Danube River.
- Watch 'The Nutcracker' Ballet at the Hungarian State Opera House.
- Enjoy the light show at St. Stephen's Basilica.
- Ice skate at the City Park Ice Rink.
Temperature during Christmas
The temperatures of Budapest range between a minimum of -1°C and a maximum of 4°C during Christmas.
Flight Duration from the UK
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes is the estimated flight duration from the UK to Budapest.
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is one of the best Christmas holiday destinations. You will enjoy the local holiday traditions, gothic architecture, and festive markets here. Prague’s mediaeval architecture is enhanced with Christmas decorations. The snowy landscapes and fairy lights make the surroundings look absolutely phenomenal. The holiday cheer enhances the festive mood in the market and people enjoy their surroundings in a jolly manner.
Other than Christmas lights and decorations, Prague is famous for its Christmas food. You should try the holiday special treats. The markets have stalls for seasonal treats like cinnamon and sugar pastries, spicy gingerbread, fruit-filled pancakes, and whatnot. The Nutcracker Ballet is a famous dance performance of the holiday season that you must watch.
5 Best Places to Visit in Prague
- Old Town Square
- Prague Castle
- Charles Bridge
- St. Vitus Cathedral
- Wenceslas Square
5 Things to Do in Prague
- Visit the Christmas markets at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.
- Enjoy a hot Chimney Cake with mulled wine.
- Take a Prague River Cruise in a traditional wooden boat.
- Climb the Astronomical Clock Tower to see the markets from above.
- Watch 'The Nutcracker' Ballet performance.
Temperature during Christmas
A minimum of 0°C and a maximum of 5°C is the estimated temperature of Prague during Christmas.
Flight Duration from the UK
The flight from the UK to Prague takes approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes.
8. Dubai, UAE
When looking for Christmas sun holidays, Dubai is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit during Christmas. The festive decorations, themed displays, and the shimmering lights enhance the beauty. The tree lighting ceremonies are one of the holiday highlights here. Unique centrepieces, North Pole train rides, Santa appearances, snowball zones, and more are the highlights of the winter wonderlands. Dubai has lots of adventurous activities that are loved by both adults and kids. Thus, it is one of the perfect Christmas holiday destinations for families.
Christmas in Dubai is different from an ordinary experience. You can enjoy a relaxed time at the beach and try some thriving water sports. You can also go on a desert safari with some Christmas special additions to enjoy in the winter sun. The tourist attraction places are always open to welcome guests. Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, Dubai Mall, and more are some must-visit Christmas holiday destinations to see magical festive decorations. Also, Dubai Fountain displays well-choreographed shows that look absolutely phenomenal.
5 Best Places to Visit in Dubai
- Burj Khalifa
- Dubai Mall
- Palm Jumeirah
- Dubai Marina
- Global Village
5 Things to Do in Dubai
- Visit the Christmas markets at Madinat Jumeirah and Global Village.
- Enjoy a festive brunch at one of Dubai's luxury hotels.
- Watch the Christmas tree lighting at Raffles The Palm.
- Ice skate at the Dubai Ice Rink in Dubai Mall.
- Take a desert safari with a festive twist.
Temperature during Christmas
Dubai typically experiences mild weather during Christmas with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 21°C and a maximum of 27°C.
Flight Duration from the UK
The flight duration from the UK to Dubai is approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes.
9. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is one of the perfect destinations to consider when looking for Xmas sun holidays. The tropical climate assures you a fantastic beach holiday with some spectacular Christmas decorations. You can chill on the beach, visit the landmark sites, and discover some unique places here. Other than that, you will get to learn about the local culture and holiday traditions of Thailand during Christmas.
You will enjoy live DJs, concerts, vibrant night scenes at the bars and pubs, and whatnot. There are many resorts that organise beach-front parties for their international guests during the Christmas season. You should try the festive meals with an additional touch of Thai cuisine. A seafood buffet is a Thai tradition that you can relish for a burst of flavour in your mouth. Overall, Phuket is one of the most amazing Christmas holiday destinations where a holiday feels like a meditation retreat.
5 Best Places to Visit in Phuket
- Patong Beach
- Big Buddha
- Phi Phi Islands
- Old Phuket Town
- Phang Nga Bay
5 Things to Do in Phuket
- Visit the Christmas markets at Central Phuket.
- Enjoy a festive dinner at one of the beachside resorts.
- Take a sunset cruise around Phang Nga Bay.
- Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bangla Road.
- Relax on the beautiful beaches.
Temperature during Christmas
Minimum 24°C and maximum 32°C are the expected temperatures of Phuket during Christmas.
Flight Duration from the UK
The flight will take approximately 12 to 13 hours to reach from the UK to Phuket.
10. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is one of the finest destinations to enjoy Xmas dun holidays. The warm and sunny weather offers beach escapades, outdoor activities, and lots of fun in a festive atmosphere. The Christmas season brings lots of joy to the streets. The holiday decorations, festive markets, street parties with live music, Christmas displays, lighting decorations, and more are the highlights of Cpate Town.
You can go hiking, sandboarding, and paragliding, for outdoor activities. In addition, the wine tours and sunset cruises are quite popular among the tourists. During the night, you can enjoy the fireworks, food stalls in the Christmas markets, and holiday meals in the restaurants. KaapseKlopse is a unique holiday tradition in Cape Town. This tradition is the celebration of slavery’s abolition and the locals march through the city.
5 Best Places to Visit in Cape Town
- Table Mountain
- V&A Waterfront
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
- Robben Island
- Cape Point
5 Things to Do in Cape Town
- Visit the Christmas markets at V&A Waterfront and Kirstenbosch.
- Enjoy a festive picnic at Kirstenbosch Gardens.
- Take a sunset cruise from the V&A Waterfront.
- Explore the Christmas lights on Adderley Street.
- Attend a Carols by Candlelight event at Kirstenbosch.
Temperature during Christmas
During Christmas, the temperature in Cape Town typically ranges from a minimum of 15°C to a maximum of 25°C.
Flight Duration from the UK
The flight duration from the UK to Cape Town is approximately 12 hours.
11. Tenerife, Canary Islands
If you are looking forward to the Christmas sun holidays, Tenerife is the ideal place for you. It is the largest and one of the hottest in the Canary Islands. The warm climate makes it a fantastic beach holiday destination during the Christmas holidays. You will admire the lovely Christmas lights, festive decorations, and wonderful holiday markets. You can see the unique Christmas special displays in the shops and town halls.
Tenerife is one of the most amazing Christmas holiday destinations where you can enjoy picnics on the beach. In addition, hiking and cable car rides are available for a thrilling adventure at Mount Teide. For holiday specials, you can enjoy open-air concerts at Santa Cruz. You should try delicious holiday meals like roasted turkey, Christmas pudding, almond biscuits, and more in the markets.
5 Best Places to Visit in Tenerife
- Mount Teide
- Loro Parque
- Siam Park
- Playa de las Américas
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife
5 Things to Do in Cape Town
- Visit the Christmas markets at Santa Cruz and La Laguna.
- Enjoy a festive meal at a seaside restaurant.
- Attend a concert at the Auditorio de Tenerife.
- Take a whale-watching tour.
- Relax on the beach at Playa de las Américas.
Temperature during Christmas
The temperatures of Tenerife range between a minimum of 15°C and a maximum of 22°C during Christmas.
Flight Duration from the UK
Approximately 4 to 5 hours is the estimated flight duration from the UK to Tenerife.
12. Maldives
When thinking about Christmas, a picture of snowy white landscapes immediately comes to your mind. What if I tell you to imagine the same white landscape but in a hot background? Maldives is one of the phenomenal Christmas holiday destinations where you can enjoy warm weather on the white sand beaches. The warm weather, clear blue skies, and sun-kissing beaches make Maldives a unique place to go for holidays.
Whether you are planning a group holiday for adults, or want to visit with your kids, Maldives is a perfect option for both adults and kids during Christmas. Kids love the craft activities and holiday markets. The festive environment enhances the beauty of this island. Also, the street parties, Christmas decorations, live music, festive markets, and more add charm. You can enjoy the magnificent ocean views from the beach and go diving, island hopping, and relaxing during your holidays.
5 Best Places to Visit in Maldives
- Male Island
- Baros Island
- Meeru Island
- Biyadhoo Island
- Vaadhoo Island
5 Things to Do in Maldives
- Relax on the pristine beaches.
- Snorkel or dive in the vibrant coral reefs.
- Enjoy a sunset cruise.
- Visit the Christmas markets at the resorts.
- Experience a traditional Maldivian feast.
Temperature during Christmas
A minimum of 25°C and a maximum of 31°C is the estimated temperature of Maldives during Christmas.
Flight Duration from the UK
The flight from the UK to Maldives takes approximately 10 to 12 hours.
Read Also: Winter Sun Destinations
