20 Dreamy Destinations for a Christmas Holiday Vacation This Season🎄🎁🎅
Whether you’re seeking white sand or white snow this holiday season, these festive destinations are perfect for a Christmas holiday vacation.
The holiday season is the most magical time of year to travel.
It’s also one of the best times of the year to travel if you’re trying to work around school vacation schedules.
I’ve recently covered my favorite fall travel destinations and the best places to travel in the winter months. But if you’re looking for somewhere special to spend the holidays this year, this one’s for you!
Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy winter wonderland or a tropical beach escape where palm trees replace Christmas trees, this list of the best Christmas holiday vacations will give you plenty of December vacation ideas.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle). All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
From traditional Christmas markets in Europe to warm-weather retreats in Hawaii and the Caribbean, these holiday destinations shine bright through Christmas and New Year’s.
Start planning your Christmas escape now and ring in the New Year in one of these incredible holiday destinations.
1. New York City
Few places capture the spirit of Christmas time like New York City.
From the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony to ice skating in Bryant Park and the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, it’s a true winter wonderland.
Ring in the New Year at Times Square and experience one of the most iconic celebrations on earth.
Where to Stay: The Plaza Hotel for classic holiday luxury steps from Central Park, or The Bryant Park Hotel for chic modern style near all the festive action.
2. Germany’s Christmas Markets
Germany is synonymous with the holiday season and home to some of the world’s most enchanting Christmas markets. We lived in Germany for 3 years and trust me when I say that there’s no better place to be during the holidays.
Wander through festive stalls while sipping mulled wine and sampling holiday treats. The warm glow of the markets creates an unforgettable Christmas vacation experience.
Two of my favorite German Christmas markets are Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt and Rothenburg ob der Tauber (known as Germany’s Christmas village year-round).
Read More: With a 400 Year History, Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is One of Europe’s Most Beautiful🎄🎁
Where to Stay: Romantik Hotel Markusturm in Rothenburg for old world charm, or Hotel Drei Raben in Nuremberg for boutique luxury steps from the market square.
3. Rome, Italy
For a truly spiritual and cultural holiday, spend Christmas in Rome and attend Midnight Mass at the Vatican.
The city’s piazzas and churches are beautifully decorated, and you’ll find nativity scenes on nearly every corner. Italy offers a mix of history, faith, and festive charm perfect for a Christmas holiday vacation.
Read More: The Best of Rome in 48 Hours (Plus: 7 Things You Can’t Miss!)
Where to Stay: Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie for luxury near Piazza del Popolo, or Albergo del Senato for breathtaking views of the Pantheon.
4. Aspen, Colorado
If your idea of the holidays involves snow-capped peaks and ski chalets, Aspen delivers.
Enjoy cross-country skiing, fireside hot chocolate, and cozy lodges that make it feel like a postcard come to life. It’s one of the best Christmas vacation destinations for a luxurious winter getaway.
Read More: Aspen Colorado: Confessions of an Aspiring Ski Bunny
Where to Stay: The Little Nell for ski-in/ski-out luxury, or the St Regis Aspen Resort for mountain-town elegance.
5. The Hawaiian Islands
Trade cold weather for warm aloha vibes in Hawaii, where you can celebrate Christmas with ocean breezes and tropical traditions.
From festive luaus on the Big Island to the beautiful Christmas light display at Iolani Palace, Hawaii is the perfect place for a warm-weather Christmas vacation. Santa arrives on a surfboard here, not a sleigh.
Not to mention the resorts in Hawaii do a five-star job with holiday decorations. So trade “Merry Christmas” for “Mele Kalikimaka” this year in the Hawaiian islands.
Read More: What’s the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit? It Depends. Here’s How to Decide!
Where to Stay: Westin Moana Surfrider in Waikiki for unrivaled holiday decor in a beachfront location, or the Grand Wailea Resort Maui for island luxury and holiday festivities.
6. Australia (Sydney & the Whitsundays)
Experience Christmas in summer with beach barbecues, sunshine, and spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbour.
Australia’s festive energy and outdoor celebrations make it one of the best Christmas holiday destinations in the southern hemisphere.
Sydney is a fabulous city and you’ll find plenty to do there. But consider pairing Sydney with a visit to the Whitsundays to explore the Great Barrier Reef and some of the best beaches in the world.
Read More: This Aussie Archipelago is the Perfect Home Base for the Great Barrier Reef 🦈🐠
Where to Stay: Park Hyatt Sydney for unbeatable harbor views, or the Intercontinental Hayman Island Resort for a tropical escape.
7. Southwest Florida
With under-the-radar destinations like Boca Grande, Casey Key and Punta Gorda, Southwest Florida offers a sunny, relaxing Christmas holiday with twinkling holiday lights and seaside charm.
I grew up in Southwest Florida and I can tell you that there are few places in the world with better December weather than this part of Florida.
Read More: Forget Naples or Sarasota: Old Florida Still Exists on This Charming Barrier Island
The holiday season brings boat parades, golf cart parades, and mild weather that makes it perfect for a family vacation or a romantic getaway.
Read More: 10 Super Fun Things to Do in Punta Gorda FL (#7 is a Must!)
Where to Stay: A Beach Retreat at Casey Key for home-away-from-home beachfront vibes or the Sunseeker Resort for waterfront views with 5-star amenities (including the largest swimming pool in Florida!).
8. Aruba
Nicknamed “One Happy Island,” this Caribbean paradise is perfect for a laid-back holiday vacation with plenty of sunshine.
Aruba combines turquoise waters, festive island traditions, and luxurious resorts in one holiday-friendly package. It’s a great place to unwind on the beach and celebrate the New Year in paradise.
Read More: Why the Caribbean’s ABC Islands are the Perfect Hurricane-Free Summer Escape
Where to Stay: The Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort for access to Flamingo Beach or Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort for adults-only serenity.
9. Quebec City, Canada
Step into a storybook setting in Quebec City, where cobblestone streets and old-world charm meet Christmas magic.
The city’s holiday markets, snowy rooftops, and cozy bistros create a festive atmosphere perfect for a white Christmas.
Where to Stay: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac for an iconic stay overlooking Old Quebec, or Auberge Saint-Antoine for boutique hotel comfort in the historic district.
10. London, England
London sparkles with holiday cheer, from the lights of Oxford Street to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland.
Enjoy Christmas carols, seasonal treats, and festive markets before ringing in the New Year with a spectacular fireworks display along the Thames.
Where to Stay: The Savoy for timeless London luxury or Hotel 41, nestled behind Buckingham Palace.
11. Vienna, Austria
Known for its elegant Christmas markets and classical concerts, Vienna is one of Europe’s most romantic holiday travel destinations.
Sip hot chocolate in a cozy café or stroll through illuminated streets that capture the festive season perfectly.
Where to Stay: Hotel Sacher Wien for old-world charm and legendary service, or the Boutiquehotel Das Tyrol for exclusive design and modern Viennese art.
12. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague feels like a fairy tale during the Christmas season, with Gothic architecture, glowing markets, and the scent of cinnamon in the air.
Celebrate Christmas Eve in one of Europe’s most photogenic holiday destinations. Explore outside the city with day trips to charming Cesky Krumlov or Karlovy Vary, Europe’s lesser-known spa town.
Read More: 10 Delightful & Delicious Things to Do in Prague (#8 is a 🍺 spa!)
Where to Stay: Hotel Paris Prague for Art Nouveau elegance, or The Emblem Hotel for modern comfort near Old Town Square.
13. Reykjavik, Iceland
Experience a truly unique Christmas vacation in Iceland, where snowy landscapes meet the shimmering northern lights.
Warm up in geothermal hot springs, enjoy Icelandic holiday traditions, and toast to the New Year under a sky full of stars.
Where to Stay: Hotel Borg by Keahotels for Art Deco luxury in downtown Reykjavik, or ION Adventure Hotel for northern lights viewing in the countryside.
14. Cape Town, South Africa
Celebrate Christmas in the sun with views of Table Mountain and festive energy all around.
Cape Town is perfect for beach days and wine country excursions. Add in lively New Year’s Eve events and you’ve got an ideal holiday travel destination. Don’t miss a visit to see the penguins of Boulder’s Beach or soak up the holiday vibes at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.
Where to Stay: One&Only Cape Town for waterfront elegance, or The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa for dramatic ocean and mountain views.
15. Costa Rica
Escape to tropical paradise for a Christmas vacation surrounded by lush rainforests, volcanoes, and beaches.
Enjoy warm weather, wildlife adventures, and festive local celebrations that make this destination a perfect mix of relaxation and excitement.
Where to Stay: Nayara Gardens in Arenal for rainforest luxury and volcanic views, or Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo for oceanfront elegance and festive family fun.
16. Dublin, Ireland
Ireland’s capital glows with holiday lights, cheerful pubs, and carols echoing through historic streets.
With its cozy atmosphere and welcoming spirit, Dublin is a wonderful choice for a Christmas holiday vacation filled with warmth and joy.
And there’s so much more to see outside of Dublin! Don’t miss a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher or nearby castles. Ireland is a gorgeous country to explore any time of year.
Read More: Renting a Car for Your Trip to Ireland This Summer? Better Read This First ☘️🚗
Where to Stay: The Shelbourne Dublin for grandeur overlooking St. Stephen’s Green, or The Merrion Hotel for elegant charm and classic Irish warmth.
17. Paris, France
Few cities are more enchanting during the holiday season than Paris.
From the glittering Champs-Élysées to festive window displays at Galeries Lafayette, Paris at Christmastime is perfection. A trip to Paris is a romantic Christmas getaway that ends perfectly with New Year’s Eve fireworks at the Eiffel Tower.
Where to Stay: Le Meurice for luxury near the Louvre, or Hôtel Recamier in Saint-Germain for boutique sophistication.
18. Edinburgh, Scotland
With one of Europe’s most festive Christmas markets and its world-famous Hogmanay celebration, Edinburgh is an unbeatable holiday getaway.
Expect live music, fireworks, and a vibrant atmosphere through New Year’s Day. Be sure to explore outside Edinburgh with a terrific day trip to the countryside to explore castles, lochs, and more!
Read More: Epic Edinburgh: 16 Things You Don’t Want to Miss in Scotland’s Capital City
Where to Stay: A hotel in Edinburgh’s Old Town is a must for easy walkability. The Balmoral Hotel for luxury and views of Edinburgh Castle, or The Witchery by the Castle for romantic, Gothic flair.
19. Saint Lucia
The Caribbean is a paradise for the holidays and Saint Lucia has an ideal mix of luxury resorts, tropical scenery, and cultural festivities.
Spend your Christmas holidays relaxing on golden beaches or join the locals for island-style holiday celebrations full of music and cheer.
Read More: Why I’m Glad I Gave Saint Lucia a Second Chance
Where to Stay: Jade Mountain Resort for breathtaking views of the Pitons, or Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort for beachfront relaxation and holiday celebrations.
20. Queenstown, New Zealand
Enjoy the holiday season under the summer sun in Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital.
From lakeside picnics to bungee jumping and other mountain adventures, New Zealand is a refreshing twist on Christmas and New Year travel. There’s no better destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Where to Stay: Eichardt’s Private Hotel for lakeside luxury, or Matakauri Lodge for panoramic mountain views and world-class dining.
Celebrate the Holidays in a New Destination This Year!🎁
Whether you’re dreaming of snow-covered streets and Christmas markets or tropical beaches and sunshine, these Christmas holiday vacations offer something special for every traveler.
Each destination brings its own traditions, flavors, and festive energy — making this the perfect time of year to plan a trip filled with holiday cheer.
Oh, and if you’re searching for the perfect gift for the travel lover in your life, I’ve got you covered there, too! 👇
25+ Perfect Travel Gifts for the Frequent Traveler on Your Christmas List ✈️🎁
Wherever your travels take you, may your Christmas be merry, your New Year unforgettable, and your Travel Bucket List one destination shorter.
