Christmas is a special time of year for many people, full of lights, decorations, family, and festive celebrations. It is also a popular time to travel, whether you want to experience a destination during its most magical time, or if you want to take a holiday with loved ones or just yourself. From the snowy landscapes and winter activities of European cities and resorts to the tropical sunshine and beaches of warm-weather destinations, Christmas travel destinations come in all shapes and sizes.
A Christmas travel bucket list is all about ticking off the places you’ve dreamed of visiting during the holiday season, creating lifelong memories with family and friends, and experiencing the holiday spirit in new and exciting ways. Here, we will take a look at some of the best Christmas travel bucket list destinations, the experiences they offer, and how to make the most of your own Christmas travel.
Why Travel During Christmas Is Unique
Traveling during Christmas is a special time to explore new destinations and see familiar places in a new light, covered in lights, festive decorations, and holiday cheer. Visiting places during Christmas often involves:
Traditional Festivities: Christmas is celebrated in different ways all over the world, and traveling to experience the local holiday traditions is a popular and rewarding experience. This might include Christmas markets in Europe, holiday-themed events, or tropical island parties.
Seasonal Activities: Depending on your destination, activities might include skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, ice skating, visiting the beach or the mountains, or attending holiday shows and concerts.
Holiday Magic: Whether it’s the decorations, the lights, or the atmosphere, traveling to a Christmas destination brings its own special charm and magic.
Christmas travel can often be more expensive than at other times of the year, and some destinations can also be busy, with crowds. To avoid spending too much, plan ahead, book early, and be flexible with your travel plans and accommodation.
Christmas Travel Bucket List Destinations
Christmas travel bucket list destinations are places that are particularly special to visit during the holiday season, either because of their festive attractions, local traditions, or just their overall atmosphere. This can include cities and towns famous for their Christmas decorations and events, such as Vienna, Germany, or Prague, or snowy mountain resorts where you can ski or sled down a hill.
These are the top places to add to your Christmas travel bucket list:
1. Lapland, Finland
Lapland is a popular Christmas travel destination as it is home to Santa Claus Village, as well as having lots of snow and winter activities, such as husky sled rides and snowmobile safaris. Visitors can also explore Finnish culture and Northern Lights excursions. There is even an Ice Hotel, complete with snow sculptures and ice beds!
Lapland is a great place to visit for Christmas with family and is the perfect backdrop for experiencing Santa Claus and real snow for the first time.
2. Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas” due to its stunningly beautiful Christmas markets, glowing lights, and illuminated canals. Visitors can wander around the old town to explore Strasbourg’s festive atmosphere, historical architecture, and the river’s shimmering lights. This is also a great place to try local French food, such as Alsatian gingerbread and mulled wine.
This is an ideal bucket list destination for couples who want to mix history, culture, and Christmas magic.
3. Vienna, Austria
Christmas in Vienna is all about music, culture, and sophistication. The city offers a mixture of traditional Christmas markets, classical music concerts, and delicious food and drink. In the winter, outdoor ice skating rinks are set up in front of historic buildings, and you can taste traditional Viennese Christmas foods, such as Stollen and Sachertorte.
Vienna is a great Christmas travel destination for those looking for a cultural, culinary, and festive city break.
4. Nuremberg, Germany
Germany is a well-known destination for Christmas markets, and Nuremberg is among the most popular. The city’s main attraction is the Christkindlesmarkt, or the Christmas Market, with lots of stalls selling local crafts and delicious food and drinks. Like other German Christmas markets, mulled wine and Nuremberg gingerbread are a must-try.
Nuremberg is a great place for travelers seeking a European Christmas experience that is perfect for families and couples.
5. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is famous for its fairy-tale architecture, making it a picturesque Christmas destination. Popular Christmas activities include the old town square Christmas market, Czech mulled wine and pastries, and ice skating in scenic locations. Prague also has many historic castles and cobblestone streets to explore.
Prague is an excellent choice for those who want to visit a romantic and magical city with family or loved ones.
6. Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City is a European-style city with snow-covered streets, making it a popular choice for a winter wonderland Christmas. Winter attractions in Quebec include Christmas markets, winter carnival events, sleigh rides, and outdoor ice skating. The city also has cozy hotels and restaurants that serve festive meals.
Quebec City is a great place to spend Christmas if you are looking for a destination in North America with a European feel.
7. New York City, USA
New York City is known for its Christmas spirit, with Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree and ice rink, and festive window displays. Visitors can also check out the Christmas markets in Bryant Park and Union Square, or catch a Broadway holiday show or concert.
NYC is a must-visit for travelers who want to enjoy a Christmas in a bustling, festive, and iconic city.
8. Lapland, Sweden
Sweden’s Lapland region is similar to the Finnish Lapland, with Christmas-themed Santa attractions and winter activities, such as dog sled rides, ice hotels, and Northern Lights tours. The Swedish Lapland is a little quieter and more serene than the Finnish one, which can be crowded, making it a good choice if you want to avoid the rush.
Sweden is a great choice for anyone who wants a Christmas in the snow with Santa Claus, but without the big crowds.
9. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is a unique combination of Christmas and winter adventure, with snow-covered landscapes and festive activities. Visitors can also go on tours to witness the Northern Lights and explore Iceland’s geothermal hot springs and other attractions. Iceland also has its own local Christmas traditions, which visitors can take part in and enjoy.
Iceland is ideal for travelers who want a magical and offbeat Christmas trip.
10. Bethlehem, West Bank
Bethlehem is a unique bucket list Christmas travel destination, ideal for those who want a spiritual and culturally-enriching experience. Visitors can go on a Christmas pilgrimage and walk in the footsteps of baby Jesus by visiting the Church of the Nativity and other historical Christian landmarks.
Bethlehem is a perfect place to visit over the Christmas holidays for those who want a different kind of Christmas experience.
11. Tokyo, Japan
Japan has a very different kind of Christmas from Europe or the US, with lots of lights, unique markets, and Christmas cafés. In Tokyo, visitors can enjoy the illuminated streets and Christmas light festivals. Tokyo also has two Disney resorts, Disneyland and DisneySea, which hold special holiday events and celebrations.
Tokyo is great for travelers who want a Christmas destination full of lights and creativity.
12. London, England
London is one of the best Christmas destinations in the world and is full of history, lights, and culture. Popular attractions include Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, Covent Garden’s Christmas decorations and market, and ice skating at the Natural History Museum or the Science Museum.
London is a good Christmas travel choice for history buffs or anyone who wants to spend Christmas in a European city with modern flare.
13. Sydney, Australia
Sydney is a popular warm-weather Christmas destination and a good choice if you want to spend Christmas in the sun, on the beach, and with your family. Sydney holds outdoor Christmas festivals and events, as well as performances at the Opera House, and beautiful fireworks.
Sydney is ideal for travelers who want a beach holiday and to spend Christmas in the sun.
14. Hawaii, USA
Hawaii is another sunny and tropical Christmas destination with lots of beaches and fun activities. Christmas in Hawaii often includes luaus, a traditional Hawaiian celebration, with tropical cocktails and food. Hawaii resorts are also decorated for the holidays, and there are also family-friendly Christmas activities.
Hawaii is a good choice for anyone who wants a warm, fun, and relaxing Christmas holiday.
15. Cancun, Mexico
Mexico is another warm-weather Christmas destination with white sand beaches, tropical cocktails, and Mayan temples. Cancun also has all-inclusive resorts with lots of Christmas activities and events, as well as shopping, water sports, and family entertainment.
Cancun is a good choice if you want a tropical beach holiday with Christmas activities.
16. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is one of the best budget-friendly warm-weather Christmas destinations, with beaches, water sports, and traditional Balinese culture. Bali is also home to some of the cheapest family-friendly resorts and hotels. Bali also has lots of Christmas events and themed cafes.
Bali is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable tropical Christmas bucket list travel destination.
17. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is a good place for travelers who want a sunny, relaxing Christmas break with beaches, resorts, and family-friendly activities and entertainment. The Dominican Republic also has local Christmas markets and festivals for visitors to experience, plus budget-friendly resorts.
The Dominican Republic is a great choice for families or groups of friends who want to spend Christmas in the sun.
18. Rome, Italy
Rome is a great destination for those who want a historic, cultural, and romantic Christmas. Visitors can attend Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, go Christmas sightseeing and shopping, and taste traditional Italian Christmas foods.
Rome is an excellent bucket list Christmas travel destination for history and culture lovers.
19. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City is another good choice if you want a Mexican Christmas and is also more affordable than Cancun or the Dominican Republic. Popular Christmas activities include Las Posadas (a traditional Mexican Christmas celebration), Christmas markets, and food and drink.
Mexico City is perfect for anyone who wants to explore local culture during Christmas and spend time with the family.
20. Philippines
The Philippines is one of the best bucket list Christmas destinations for travelers who want to experience Christmas for the long haul. In the Philippines, Christmas is a long celebration that can run from September to January. Visitors can also experience unique Christmas lantern festivals, as well as local family traditions.
The Philippines is a good choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a long and festive Christmas trip.
Christmas Bucket List Tips
When creating a Christmas travel bucket list, it can be a good idea to ask yourself the following questions:
What is Your Ideal Christmas: Snow and mountains, sun and beaches, local cultural traditions, European Christmas markets, big cities with lots of activities and attractions, or more offbeat destinations?
Plan in Advance: Christmas travel destinations tend to be busy and more expensive than during other seasons, so it is best to start planning as early as possible and book flights, accommodation, and attractions and activities early.
Set a Budget: Work out a realistic travel budget, then start looking for deals and discounts on flights, accommodations, and activities to make it all come together within your budget.
Consider Family/Group Travel Needs: If you are traveling with your family or a group of friends, make sure the bucket list destination has things for both adults and kids to do. It’s always a good idea to check on things such as family rooms, free child activities, and discounted tickets for families.
Stay Flexible: Flexibility is your best friend when planning Christmas travel, so if you can change your travel dates, destination, or accommodation type, you can often save money and make planning much easier.
Choose Places with Unique Local Traditions: You can also plan your Christmas travel bucket list based on destinations with unique and interesting holiday traditions, foods, and activities that you would like to experience.
Final Words
Christmas travel bucket lists are all about ticking off those dream holiday destinations for the holiday season. Whether it is Santa Claus, snow and mountains, or warm beaches, Christmas can be celebrated in all manner of different places. A Christmas travel bucket list is all about planning, researching destinations, attractions, and activities, as well as booking well in advance. This way, you can have a magical Christmas travel holiday.
Pick a place from our bucket list above, and start planning your next Christmas vacation now.
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