Explore the magic of Christmas with this festive collage featuring iconic holiday destinations around the world. From the dazzling Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in New York City to the snowy charm of Santa Claus Village in Lapland, experience the holiday spirit like never before. Enjoy the warmth of a European Christmas market in Vienna, and soak up the sun at Bondi Beach, where Santa hats meet the waves. Surrounded by snowflakes, ornaments, and fairy lights, this collage captures the essence of the holiday season in rich reds, greens, and golds. Discover your next unforgettable Christmas getaway in 2025!




Christmas is the season of joy, magic, and creating unforgettable memories. Whether you're looking for a cozy winter wonderland, cultural festivities, or sunny beaches to escape the cold, the world has something for everyone. Christmas 2025 is fast approaching, and it's the perfect time to plan your holiday travels. Here are the top 10 places you absolutely must visit this Christmas to make your holiday season truly extraordinary.

1. Vienna, Austria


Experience the charm of Vienna during Christmas with dazzling markets, festive concerts, and ice skating at iconic venues like Rathausplatz and Schönbrunn Palace.

Vienna is the epitome of holiday charm during Christmas. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling lights and Christmas markets that have been a tradition for centuries. The Rathausplatz Christmas Market is a must-visit, offering local crafts, mulled wine, and sweet treats like strudel.

Don't miss out on the magical concerts at the Vienna State Opera or the chance to ice skate at Wiener Eislaufverein, surrounded by stunning imperial architecture. To make your visit even more magical, plan a trip to the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market, where you can soak up the festive atmosphere.

For more on Vienna's Christmas charm, check out the ultimate guide to European Christmas markets.

2. Lapland, Finland


Celebrate Christmas in Lapland, where reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobile safaris, and the Northern Lights offer an unforgettable holiday experience.

If you’ve ever dreamed of a storybook Christmas, Lapland is where those dreams come true. Known as the official home of Santa Claus, this magical destination offers activities like reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobile safaris, and opportunities to meet Santa himself at the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.

One of the highlights is witnessing the Northern Lights, a breathtaking natural phenomenon best seen during the winter months. Families and couples alike will love the cozy igloo hotels and the chance to celebrate Christmas surrounded by pristine snow-covered landscapes.

Explore more about Northern Lights adventures in Finland and why Lapland is the ultimate Christmas destination.

3. New York City, USA


New York City transforms into a Christmas wonderland with the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, festive window displays, and seasonal shows like The Nutcracker.

There’s no place quite like New York City during Christmas. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is an iconic sight, surrounded by bustling holiday shoppers and ice skaters. Take a walk down Fifth Avenue to marvel at the elaborate holiday window displays, and don’t forget to catch a holiday classic like The Nutcracker or the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

Central Park offers dreamy carriage rides through snow-dusted paths, while the Dyker Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn boasts some of the most extravagant Christmas lights displays in the country.

Get tips for your ultimate NYC Christmas itinerary for 2025 to make the most of your visit.

4. Strasbourg, France


Visit Strasbourg, known as the ‘Capital of Christmas,’ for its historic Christmas markets, handcrafted ornaments, and festive atmosphere in the heart of Alsace.

Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg is a must-visit destination for its enchanting holiday spirit. The city’s Christkindelsmärik is one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to 1570. Here, you’ll find handcrafted ornaments, traditional Alsace pastries, and aromatic mulled wine.

Stroll through the picturesque streets lined with half-timbered houses, all beautifully lit for the season. Visit Strasbourg Cathedral, which provides a stunning backdrop to the festivities, and enjoy local specialties like bredele cookies and spiced cider.

Discover why Strasbourg is a favorite among European holiday travelers in 2025.

5. Nuremberg, Germany


Discover Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt, a sensory delight filled with gingerbread, bratwurst, and handcrafted toys. A perfect stop for Christmas shopping and family fun.

Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, and Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is arguably the most iconic. Located in the city’s medieval old town, this market is a sensory delight with its aroma of gingerbread, bratwurst, and Glühwein (hot spiced wine).

One unique feature of Nuremberg’s market is its focus on traditional crafts and toys, making it a great place to pick up meaningful gifts. Be sure to visit the Children’s Christmas Market, where families can enjoy a magical carousel ride and holiday-themed activities.

Plan your visit with this comprehensive guide to German Christmas markets in 2025.

6. Reykjavik, Iceland


Celebrate Christmas in Reykjavik, Iceland, where the Yule Lads bring festive cheer and the Northern Lights add a magical glow to the snowy winter landsca

Reykjavik offers a unique twist on Christmas celebrations. The city’s folklore includes the quirky Yule Lads, mischievous characters who bring gifts to children during the 13 days leading up to Christmas.

Take part in Reykjavik’s winter festivities, including the Christmas markets and the annual Yuletide Concerts. The crisp, snow-filled landscapes are perfect for spotting the Northern Lights, and you can warm up afterward in one of Iceland’s famous geothermal lagoons.

Learn more about Iceland’s festive traditions and attractions for Christmas 2025.

7. Kyoto, Japan

Experience Kyoto’s peaceful Christmas with beautiful illuminations and cultural traditions. Visit Kiyomizu Temple and enjoy Japan’s unique holiday customs.

For a peaceful and culturally rich Christmas, Kyoto is a top choice. While Japan doesn’t traditionally celebrate Christmas, the city comes alive with breathtaking illuminations and seasonal events.

Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, beautifully lit for the season, or stroll through Kiyomizu Temple, which is adorned with festive lights. Indulge in a Japanese Christmas tradition: enjoying a cake and fried chicken meal, which has become a unique holiday custom.

Get inspired by this guide to Christmas in Japan 2025 to make your holiday magical.

8. Quebec City, Canada

Visit Quebec City’s German Christmas Market, where cobblestone streets, festive lights, and horse-drawn carriages create a fairy-tale atmosphere during the holidays

Quebec City transforms into a real-life snow globe during the holidays. Its German Christmas Market offers a delightful mix of European charm and Canadian hospitality. Cobblestone streets, twinkling lights, and horse-drawn carriages create a fairy-tale atmosphere.

Don’t miss Château Frontenac, the city’s iconic landmark, which looks even more stunning under a blanket of snow. Warm up with poutine and mulled wine as you explore the charming Old Town.

Find out why Quebec City is one of North America’s best Christmas destinations for 2025.

9. Bondi Beach, Australia


Enjoy a unique Christmas at Bondi Beach, where BBQs, beach parties, and surfing combine with Sydney’s holiday events for a sun-soaked festive season

For those who want to swap snow for sun, Bondi Beach in Australia offers a refreshing take on Christmas. Celebrate with a BBQ on the beach, join festive beach parties, and enjoy surfing in the warm waters.

The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a unique way to spend the holiday. Plus, Sydney’s Christmas events and New Year’s Eve fireworks are just a short drive away.

Explore more sunny holiday options with this guide to Christmas in Australia 2025.

10. Prague, Czech Republic

Celebrate Christmas in Prague with its stunning Old Town Square market, towering Christmas tree, and iconic landmarks like Charles Bridge and Prague Castle covered in snow." These titles and descriptions are optimized for SEO and provide clear, engaging information about each destination.

Prague’s Gothic charm is amplified during Christmas, making it one of Europe’s most magical holiday destinations. The Old Town Square Christmas Market is the city’s highlight, featuring a towering Christmas tree and festive stalls selling traditional Czech treats like trdelník (chimney cake).

The city’s historic landmarks, including Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, look stunning under a layer of snow. Don’t forget to attend a classical music concert in one of Prague’s stunning churches.

Plan your dream trip with this guide to Christmas in Prague 2025.

An Unforgettable Holiday Season Awaits

From Europe’s magical Christmas markets to sunny shores in Australia, the world offers incredible destinations to celebrate Christmas 2025 in style. Where will your holiday adventure take you?