Best Christmas Vacation Spots in 2025 – Ultimate Holiday Travel Guide

Christmas is the perfect time to travel, explore festive destinations, and enjoy holiday traditions. Whether you’re looking for snowy wonderlands, vibrant city celebrations, or unique cultural experiences, Christmas 2025 offers a wealth of travel opportunities. This guide highlights the top Christmas vacation spots across the U.S. and globally, including activities, events, and insider tips to make your holiday memorable.

1. New York City, New York
Why Visit

Iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and Ice Skating

Holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue

Broadway shows and festive markets

Things to Do

Ice skate at Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park Winter Village

Explore holiday markets for gifts, crafts, and seasonal treats

Attend Christmas-themed performances such as The Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Insider Tips

Book hotels early; Midtown Manhattan fills quickly during the season

Public transit is easiest for navigating holiday crowds

2. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Why Visit

Known as “Christmas City”, offering historic charm and festive events

Traditional markets, live nativity scenes, and holiday performances

Things to Do

Explore Christkindlmarkt for European-style holiday shopping

Attend holiday concerts and historic site tours

Participate in festive workshops for children and families

Insider Tips

Weekdays are less crowded than weekends

Dress warmly for outdoor markets and parades

3. Rovaniemi, Finland
Why Visit

Official hometown of Santa Claus, located in the Arctic Circle

Magical winter wonderland with snow, reindeer, and northern lights

Things to Do

Meet Santa Claus and his elves

Ride reindeer sleighs or husky dog sleds

Witness the Northern Lights during winter nights

Insider Tips

Book flights and accommodations early; peak holiday season fills fast

Layered clothing is essential for Arctic temperatures

4. Strasbourg, France
Why Visit

Famous for its Christkindelsmärik, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe

Cobblestone streets and illuminated cathedrals create a storybook holiday atmosphere

Things to Do

Explore Christmas markets for gifts, crafts, and local delicacies

Attend concerts and festive events in historic squares

Enjoy seasonal Alsatian cuisine at local bistros

Insider Tips

Weekdays are quieter for exploring markets

Combine with nearby European Christmas towns for a multi-city itinerary

5. Quebec City, Canada
Why Visit

European charm in North America with snow-covered streets and festive décor

Old Quebec offers cobblestone streets, ice skating, and holiday markets

Things to Do

Skate at Place d’Youville

Explore Marché de Noël for artisanal gifts and seasonal treats

Attend holiday concerts and guided city tours

Insider Tips

Bring warm winter clothing; temperatures can be very cold

Book accommodations inside Old Quebec for convenient access to attractions

6. Leavenworth, Washington
Why Visit

Bavarian-themed village offering a storybook Christmas experience

Snow-covered streets, carolers, and festive lights

Things to Do

Attend Christmas lighting festivals

Enjoy sledding, snowshoeing, and local holiday markets

Take part in horse-drawn carriage rides through the village

Insider Tips

Arrive early for parking during weekends

Weekend stays offer additional holiday performances and events

7. Vienna, Austria
Why Visit

Famous for Christmas markets, classical concerts, and festive decorations

Elegant European architecture creates a magical holiday ambiance

Things to Do

Explore markets such as Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz

Attend Christmas concerts at historic concert halls

Sample traditional Viennese pastries and mulled wine

Insider Tips

Many markets are outdoors; dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes

Combine cultural visits with nearby European Christmas destinations

8. Tokyo, Japan
Why Visit

Unique fusion of modern lights and traditional holiday experiences

Famous for Christmas illuminations, shopping, and themed attractions

Things to Do

Visit Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea for festive shows and decorations

Explore winter illuminations in Roppongi Hills and Shibuya

Attend seasonal events in shopping districts and hotels

Insider Tips

Book hotels near event areas for easy access to illuminations

Public transportation is efficient and recommended for holiday crowds

Insider Tips for Christmas Travel

Book Early: Flights, hotels, and tickets sell out quickly during the Christmas season

Check Event Schedules: Parades, markets, and concerts often have limited days and hours

Dress Appropriately: Weather varies by destination; pack layers for cold climates and comfortable shoes for walking

Plan Activities Ahead: Reserve guided tours, skating sessions, and popular events

Combine Experiences: Mix city tours, holiday markets, and cultural experiences for a well-rounded trip

Why Christmas Travel is Special

Unique cultural and seasonal experiences across the globe

Opportunity to explore festive traditions and holiday markets

Creates lasting memories with family, friends, or couples

Offers photo-worthy winter landscapes and city decorations