Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year to travel. Across Europe and beyond, historic city centres transform into winter wonderlands filled with Christmas markets, festive lights, seasonal food and centuries-old traditions.
Whether you’re dreaming of sipping mulled wine in Germany, ice skating beneath New York’s famous Rockefeller Christmas tree or discovering fairytale streets decorated for the holidays, there are plenty of unforgettable destinations to choose from.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite Christmas destinations around the world, highlighting what makes each city special and why it’s worth visiting during the festive season.
Best Christmas Destinations Around the World
Berlin, Germany
When we think of Christmas the first idea that comes to our minds are the so famous European Christmas markets. Germany dominates in this area, as there are several cities with Christmas markets. Berlin is home to dozens of Christmas markets spread across the city. Two of the most famous are those traditionally held around Gendarmenmarkt and at Potsdamer Platz. On these two squares, the famous glühwein and mulled wine are always available.
At a Glance
- Best for: Traditional Christmas markets and festive atmosphere
- Don’t miss: Gendarmenmarkt and Potsdamer Platz Christmas markets
- Local treat: Glühwein (mulled wine) and roasted almonds
- Best time to visit: Late November to 24 December
Madrid, Spain
Puerta del Sol is the epicentre of Christmas festivities in the Spanish capital. But it is not only in this square that the magic happens. The famous Gran Via and Plaza Mayor are filled with lights and the shops have their window displays decorated to perfection. On every corner you will find a restaurant where you can take a break and eat tapas to warm up during the cold days typical of Christmas.
At a Glance
- Best for: Christmas lights and festive shopping
- Don’t miss: Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor and Gran Vía
- Local treat: Churros with hot chocolate and tapas
- Best time to visit: Early December to early January
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is considered by many to be the Christmas capital of Europe. Its famous Christmas market is one of the oldest in Europe and dates back to 1570. The Christmas market is filled with stalls offering visitors everything from souvenirs to Christmas sweets or hot drinks. The market is always decorated and Christmas music echoes through the air.
At a Glance
- Best for: Traditional Christmas markets
- Don’t miss: Christkindelsmärik and the giant Christmas tree in Place Kléber
- Local treat: Bredle biscuits and vin chaud
- Best time to visit: Late November to 24 December
New York, USA
The inauguration of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree marks the beginning of the Christmas season in New York. From the end of November to the beginning of January, the city lights up with Christmas lights, especially in Manhattan. All the city’s neighbourhoods are transformed and the Christmas decorations are a real classic.
At a Glance
- Best for: Christmas lights and iconic holiday attractions
- Don’t miss: Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue and Dyker Heights
- Local treat: Hot chocolate and Christmas cookies
- Best time to visit: Late November to early January
Budapest, Hungary
In Hungary Christmas is also special and the Christmas market in Budapest delights locals and visitors alike. The Christmas market is located in Vörösmarty square and there you can taste the famous sweets called kürtőskalács. St. Stephen’s square is also worth a visit, as this is where you will find the city’s huge Christmas tree.
At a Glance
- Best for: Affordable Christmas city breaks
- Don’t miss: Vörösmarty Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica Christmas Market
- Local treat: Kürtőskalács (chimney cake)
- Best time to visit: Mid-November to late December
Stockholm, Sweden
The Baltic countries are a classic of Christmas travel. In Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, the famous drink is mulled wine accompanied by gingerbread biscuits. In this city there is no shortage of Christmas markets with all their delicacies and an ice rink for you to enjoy.
At a Glance
- Best for: Scandinavian Christmas traditions
- Don’t miss: Gamla Stan Christmas Market
- Local treat: Pepparkakor (gingerbread biscuits) and glögg
- Best time to visit: Late November to Christmas
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius Cathedral Square is the centre of the festivities, as this is where a Christmas tree many metres high is located. The Christmas decorations in the Lithuanian capital are true works of art, just like in all the Baltic countries. Don’t be surprised when you walk down the street and are greeted with a smile and a “Linksmų Šv. Kalėdų!” (Merry Christmas).
At a Glance
- Best for: Festive decorations and a quieter Christmas getaway
- Don’t miss: Cathedral Square Christmas tree and market
- Local treat: Kūčiukai served with poppy seed milk
- Best time to visit: Early December to early January
Krakow, Poland
In Poland, Christmas is highly anticipated by the locals as they work all year round to display their works of art – the nativity scenes, szopkas in the local language. The cribs are so special that they have been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In Cracow, besides visiting the nativity scenes and the Christmas markets, you can also try Polish delicacies such as beetroot and mushroom soup, pasta stuffed with cheese, meat and cabbage, grilled sausages and potatoes and meat stew.
At a Glance
- Best for: Christmas traditions and local cuisine
- Don’t miss: Rynek Główny Christmas Market and the famous szopki
- Local treat: Pierogi and barszcz (beetroot soup)
- Best time to visit: Late November to late December
Salzburg, Austria
To the rhythm of Mozart’s music, Salzburg celebrates Christmas in unforgettable style. The city’s historic centre is beautifully decorated during the festive season, and the famous Salzburg Christkindlmarkt in Domplatz and Residenzplatz is one of the oldest and most charming Christmas markets in Austria. With its baroque architecture, festive lights and Alpine backdrop, Salzburg looks like a real Christmas postcard.
At a Glance
- Best for: Alpine Christmas atmosphere
- Don’t miss: Salzburg Christkindlmarkt at Domplatz and Residenzplatz
- Local treat: Roasted chestnuts and Lebkuchen
- Best time to visit: Late November to Christmas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Christmas destination in Europe?
If you’re looking for traditional Christmas markets, Strasbourg and Berlin are among the best destinations. For festive lights and iconic attractions, New York is an unforgettable choice.
Which city has the best Christmas market?
Strasbourg is often called the Christmas Capital of Europe, while Berlin offers the greatest variety of Christmas markets.
When should I visit Christmas markets?
Most European Christmas markets open in late November and run until Christmas Eve, although some remain open until early January.
Which Christmas destination is best for families?
Stockholm, Salzburg and Berlin are all excellent choices thanks to their family-friendly markets, festive activities and winter atmosphere.
Every destination celebrates Christmas in its own unique way. Whether you’re looking for traditional Christmas markets, snowy landscapes, festive food or dazzling light displays, these cities offer unforgettable experiences throughout the holiday season.
And if you’re planning a winter getaway, don’t forget to save this guide for later on Pinterest.
