Planning to celebrate Christmas in a far-flung destination this year? One main question that would pop into your head now is ‘where to head for Christmas.’ Well, this largely depends on one’s personal interests. So, if you don’t know where to go for Christmas this year, we have brought you this list of unique destinations that would certainly go with your preferences. Whether you are looking for an all-white Christmas, a fantastic holiday amidst nature, or distinct cultural experiences, this list of the best places to celebrate Christmas has something for every preference!
Best Places to Visit during Christmas
White Christmas
A dapper destination will not be your cup of tea if your imagination about Christmas is all white with a snow-capped backdrop. These destinations will perfectly match your imagination.
- Santa Claus Village & Santa Park, Finland
Situated roughly ten kilometers from Rovaniemi in Finland’s Lapland, Santa Claus Village provides an incredible backdrop for your white Christmas. This is actually an amusement park, and the main attraction is Santa Claus’s Office, where you can meet Santa Claus and take pictures with him. Moreover, the Arctic Circle cuts right through here, which means visitors can enter this area and cross the Arctic.
- Whistler, Canada
Image Credit: chateau-whistler.com
With twinkling lights, rattling sleigh bells, stunning frozen lakes, and snow covered all over, Whistler is a truly magical land bestowed with all the staples to celebrate a spectacular White Christmas. Whether your imagination of Christmas celebration is skiing on the slopes of its mountain ranges, ice-skating on Lake Louis, or savoring hot chocolates while relaxing by the fire, this destination will recapture your thoughts and turn them into reality.
- Reykjavik, Iceland
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The endless blankets of snow, mindblowing Christmas decorations, amazing events, and free-flowing Christmas beverages make this place an incredible wonderland to celebrate White Christmas. You can also look forward to adding exciting experiences to your visit here. Enjoy a breathtaking Icelandic horse ride, try skating on frozen floors, take a dip in a natural hot spring, and shop at exclusive Christmas markets, among others.
- Tallinn, Estonia
The surreal snow settings of Tallinn, together with its unequaled old-world appeal, budget accommodations, and fantastic dining choices, promise you a Christmas celebration unlike any destination. You can skate across the ice rink at the Old Town, sled down the Song Festival Ground, and visit the iconic Estonian Open Air Museum, among others. And did we say the place is home to the Tallinn Christmas Market, one of Europe’s best Christmas market?
- Kiruna, Sweden
Celebrate Christmas the Swedish way in a magical snow setting! Most exotic and unique experiences await you here, from catching the views of the Northern Lights and staying at the one-of-a-kind Ice Hotel to relishing delicious local treats and indulging in thrilling snowmobiling activities. With something to delight every age and preference, it is also a fantastic destination to get away with your family and little ones.
Beach Lovers
If you dream of sun-kissed beaches, green-blue waters and a warm climate for your Christmas this year, here are a few destinations that would make your dream a reality.
- The Caribbean
Boasting serene stretches of exceptional sandy shores, emerald green waters, and grand festivities, the Caribbean Islands will never let your expectations down. From luxury escapes to taking a special Christmas cruise that covers destinations like St. Maarten, Tortola, Barbados, and St. Kitts and indulging in activities such as fishing, boating, etc., options are aplenty for beach bums to celebrate Christmas here.
- Manly Beach, Australia
A beach escape during Christmas can’t get more exciting than a visit to Australia’s Manly Beach, comprising South Steyne, North Steyne, and Queenscliff. Surf on the beaches, secluded coves, and inlets; go parasailing and scuba diving; enjoy the placid waves of the beach; build sandcastles; or simply relax under the sun.
- Koh Samui, Thailand
This island paradise puts on a grand display during Christmas. Immerse yourself in its breathtaking and laidback environs, with coconut-palm-framed white beaches, verdant forest, and unspoiled traditional villages. You can also see exclusive decorations, enjoy beachfront dining, and party hard under the stars with live music, traditional entertainment, and a gala dinner.
Culture Vultures
If Christmas celebrations for you include visiting museums, exploring art galleries, and dwelling in the history of a place, here are a few spots that would satisfy the culture lover in you this Christmas.
- London, UK
From Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and museums (including the British Museum and Imperial War Museum) to stunning palaces and castles like Buckingham Palace, London is a place that history buffs will instantly fall in love with. More than these, the place comes alive with special carol concerts and Christmas markets.
- Transylvania, Romania
The splendidly beautiful Transylvania abounds with attractions of historical and cultural interest. Must-sees, among many others, are Sibiu, which is home to a multitude of museums; the fortress town of Sighişoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and Prejmer, a town with a fascinating history.
- The Vatican, Italy
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The holy city of the Vatican is a major draw for those who want to celebrate Christmas in a destination steeped in history and traditions. Besides checking out Christmas markets and shopping for items (like hot chocolate and mulled wine), you can visit fascinating museums and antiquated attractions, including the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Square, and St. Peter’s Basilica, with astonishing displays by Bernini and Michelangelo.
Nature Fanatics
There is no better way to celebrate Christmas or any other festival than spending time amidst nature. While our precious planet has blessed us with numerous splendid landscapes, here are two places that would wow you with their natural beauty.
- Kerala, India
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With magnificent beaches, stretches of tranquil backwaters, scenic lakes, palm-fringed countryside, and mesmerizing verdant greenery, Kerala – fondly dubbed as God’s own country – is incredibly enchanting and promotes an unforgettable Christmas celebration.
- Santiago, Chile
For nature lovers, this is the ultimate escape to enjoy the Christmas holidays. Thanks to its mind-blowing landscapes complemented by salubrious weather, the mid-December is the start of summer here.
- Laos
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If it’s an absolute laid-back Christmas retreat you’re after, this Southeast Asian destination is a must-visit. It is primarily a Buddhist nation with quaint monasteries, age-old yet striking architecture, and untouched, lush landscapes. That said, you get into the Christmas spirit in all its elan here. Visit the capital city, Vientiane, where you can enjoy special lighting, decorations, unique events, and Christmas-exclusive buffets (in most restaurants).
Christmas Gift Ideas That Everyone Love
Adventure Seekers
The Christmas holidays need not be about food and drinks. You can do it a bit differently by visiting a place that offers ample adventures.
- Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
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Want to spend the Christmas holidays in a totally unique manner? Visit the Amazon forest, where you can enjoy river cruising, trek off the beaten trails, come across more than 800 unique species of plants, and watch several endangered mammals, birds, and animal habitats up close, including Amazon turtles weighing more than 60 kilograms, hoatzin, macaws, kingfishers, etc.
- Cape Town, South Africa
If you are seeking a Christmas escape with amusement and adventure in equal measure, head to Cape Town this year. Engage in all typical fun and leisure attractions as part of Christmas festivities, such as shopping at Christmas markets, watching the festival of lights, participating in carols, and visiting Santa’s Village at the V&A Waterfront. Round them out with experiences as pulse-racing as biking along the captivating Table Mountain, seal snorkeling in Hout Bay, and sandboarding at Atlantis Dunes, to name a few.
All-Rounder Christmas Destination
- Dubai, UAE
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Dubai may be an Islamic destination, but it is surprisingly an amazing spot to celebrate Christmas. As the festive season approaches, the city’s malls, public places, etc., are awash with Christmas trees, decorations, and special discount deals. Be it a beach theme, an all-white Christmas experience, or an action-packed Christmas holiday you are looking for, Dubai has it all! If you still can’t believe it, simply check out the region’s dedicated attractions, such as the Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace, Christmas Festivities at Ski Dubai, and of course, the all-white Winter City at Dubai Expo City.
- Georgia
It is another destination to consider for an all-encompassing Christmas getaway. The perfect fusion of chilly weather, snowy Caucasus, ancient Sulphur Baths, captivating UNESCO World Heritage Sites, more than 8000-year-old wine history, and mostly the Christmas-specific attractions (like markets, activities, and events) keep visitors coming back to this awe-inspiring destination.
Conclusion
December is the ideal time to escape to your favorite holiday spot, with Christmas and New Year around the corner. . If you haven’t still figured it out where to visit this Christmas, simply get in touch with Rayna Tours’ holiday specialists who will help you to tailor your dream Christmas holiday. So don’t delay anymore to nail your perfect vacation.
