Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World

The holiday season brings with it a sense of wonder, warmth, and joy that transcends borders. Christmas is not just a festival; it’s a global celebration of love, togetherness, and magic. From snow-dusted alpine villages to tropical beaches adorned with twinkling lights, the world transforms into a wonderland of lights, laughter, and festivities.

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Christmas beyond your hometown, you’ll be thrilled to know that there are incredible destinations where Christmas truly comes alive. Whether you love traditional markets, carols by candlelight, or warm sunny escapes, Rydeu helps you make your travel dreams come true with seamless transfers and personalized experiences.

In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the Best Places to spend Christmas around the World, where the holiday spirit shines its brightest.

1. Vienna, Austria – The Heart of European Christmas Magic

When it comes to Places to Spend Christmas Around the World, Vienna consistently ranks at the top. The Austrian capital transforms into a glowing fairyland during December. Elegant architecture, classical music, and Christmas markets make Vienna a timeless destination.

The Vienna Christmas Market in front of the City Hall (Rathausplatz) is one of the oldest and most enchanting in Europe. Stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, aromatic mulled wine, and festive treats like gingerbread and roasted chestnuts fill the air with warmth and joy.

If you’re visiting around Christmas Eve, don’t miss the traditional Christmas concert at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, where choirs perform angelic carols that echo through the ancient walls. The combination of snow, lights, and classical music creates a perfect European Christmas fantasy.

2. New York City, USA – A Classic Christmas Dream

New York City is undoubtedly one of the Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World. The Big Apple turns into a winter wonderland straight out of a movie set. Iconic attractions like the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice skating at Central Park draw visitors from all over the world.

The streets of Manhattan shimmer with festive lights, while window displays along Fifth Avenue become miniature works of art. From sipping hot cocoa while watching the snow fall in Bryant Park to watching “The Nutcracker” at the Lincoln Center, every moment feels cinematic.

And let’s not forget the famous Times Square countdown leading to New Year’s Eve – a perfect way to end the holiday season. Rydeu ensures your transfers across the city are smooth and comfortable, so you can focus on soaking in every bit of the magic.

3. Lapland, Finland – The Home of Santa Claus

For those who want to experience Christmas in its purest form, Lapland is the ultimate destination. Located in the Arctic Circle, this snowy paradise is the home of Santa Claus himself. It’s one of the most magical Places to Spend Christmas Around the World for families and adventure seekers alike.

Imagine dashing through the snow on a reindeer sleigh, visiting Santa’s workshop in Rovaniemi, and watching the Northern Lights dance across the sky. The region offers cozy log cabins, frozen lakes, and snow-covered pine forests that feel straight out of a fairytale.

Lapland is more than a destination – it’s a feeling. A sense of childhood wonder reborn amid snowflakes and starlit skies. Whether you’re traveling with kids or rediscovering your own inner child, Lapland delivers an unforgettable Christmas experience.

4. London, England – Timeless Traditions and Twinkling Streets

London is a festive masterpiece during the holidays. The entire city lights up with decorations, carols echo through historic churches, and Christmas markets pop up along the River Thames. From Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland to the charming streets of Covent Garden, every corner exudes cheer.

The best part? London’s Christmas celebrations blend tradition with modern flair. You can enjoy a festive afternoon tea, go ice skating at the Natural History Museum, or attend a midnight mass at Westminster Abbey.

With Rydeu, you can effortlessly explore London’s landmarks while soaking in the city’s holiday sparkle. It’s one of the most romantic and atmospheric Places to Spend Christmas Around the World.

5. Paris, France – A Christmas of Lights and Love

Paris, the “City of Lights,” shines even brighter during Christmas. The festive season transforms Paris into an illuminated wonderland with glittering streets, window displays, and cozy cafés filled with the scent of hot chocolate and pastries.

The Champs-Élysées glows with golden lights, while the Notre-Dame Cathedral hosts beautiful Christmas services. Ice skating under the Eiffel Tower is a memory you’ll cherish forever. And of course, Parisian bakeries offer festive delights like Bûche de Noël, the traditional yule log cake.

Paris isn’t just romantic – it’s radiant. Every bridge, boulevard, and bistro joins the celebration. No wonder it’s one of the most sought-after Places to Spend Christmas Around the World for couples and dreamers.

6. Nuremberg, Germany – The Cradle of Christmas Markets

If you want to experience the original Christmas market culture, Nuremberg is the place to go. Its Christkindlesmarkt dates back to the 16th century and remains one of the most famous in the world. Wooden stalls, festive choirs, and the scent of spiced wine fill the cobblestone streets.

Nuremberg’s Christmas spirit is deeply traditional. Locals dress in old-fashioned costumes, children sing carols, and artisans sell hand-carved wooden toys and ornaments. The city’s medieval backdrop adds even more charm, making it feel like stepping into a storybook.

For those seeking authenticity and heritage, Nuremberg is one of the most historically rich Places to Spend Christmas Around the World.

7. Prague, Czech Republic – A Fairytale Christmas

Prague’s Gothic and Baroque architecture, blanketed in snow, makes for an utterly magical setting during Christmas. The Old Town Square Christmas Market is one of Europe’s finest, with a giant Christmas tree, live music, and traditional Czech delicacies like trdelník (a sweet, rolled pastry).

The entire city looks like it was designed for Christmas postcards – cobblestone streets, castles on the hill, and lantern-lit alleys. You can attend midnight mass at St. Vitus Cathedral or simply enjoy a cozy evening in a riverside café watching the snow fall over the Charles Bridge.

Prague offers a mix of old-world charm and festive warmth, securing its spot among the Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World.

8. Zurich, Switzerland – Snow, Lights, and Luxury

Switzerland’s winter wonderland vibes reach their peak in Zurich. Known for its beautiful lakeside setting and mountain backdrop, Zurich becomes even more enchanting during the holidays. The city hosts several Christmas markets, including the one inside the Main Train Station, famous for its 50-foot tall Swarovski Christmas tree.

Zurich’s festive offerings go beyond markets. You can enjoy fondue dinners in alpine chalets, scenic rides through snowy valleys, and the mesmerizing Lichterschwimmen, where thousands of candles float along the Limmat River.

For travelers who love luxury and serenity, Zurich is among the most elegant Places to Spend Christmas Around the World.

9. Tokyo, Japan – A Modern Christmas Wonderland

Though Christmas isn’t a traditional holiday in Japan, Tokyo celebrates it with unmatched enthusiasm and creativity. The city’s illuminations are among the most impressive in the world, with areas like Shibuya, Roppongi Hills, and Tokyo Midtown transforming into glowing spectacles.

Christmas in Tokyo is all about light shows, festive shopping, and gourmet feasts. Couples often celebrate romantic dinners, while families enjoy themed events and parades. The combination of modern innovation and festive charm makes Tokyo a unique entry in the list of Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World.

10. Sydney, Australia – A Sunny Christmas by the Sea

If you want to swap snow for sunshine, Sydney offers a warm and lively Christmas celebration. Here, Christmas falls in the middle of summer, so the festivities take on a beachside twist. Locals and visitors gather at Bondi Beach wearing Santa hats and sunglasses, enjoying BBQs and beach games.

Sydney’s Christmas concerts, fireworks, and parades light up the city, while landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge get draped in festive colors. It’s a joyful, laid-back Christmas that celebrates warmth — both from the sun and from the people.

It’s one of the most energetic and unconventional Places to Spend Christmas Around the World  perfect for travelers looking for something different.

11. Reykjavik, Iceland – A Christmas Under the Northern Lights

Few experiences rival spending Christmas in Reykjavik, where nature and culture intertwine in the most spectacular way. With daylight lasting only a few hours, the city glows with candles, fairy lights, and fire torches. The Christmas markets are small but magical, and the Icelandic Yule Lads – quirky local Santa figures – bring a touch of folklore.

Outside the city, you can witness the Aurora Borealis painting the night sky in shades of green and purple. Hot springs, snowy adventures, and cozy lodges complete this unforgettable experience. Reykjavik is one of those Places to Spend Christmas Around the World that blends serenity, adventure, and mystery.

12. Rome, Italy – A Spiritual Christmas Experience

For those who wish to experience the true essence of Christmas, Rome offers a deeply spiritual celebration. The city’s ancient basilicas, especially St. Peter’s Basilica, host awe-inspiring midnight masses and Nativity displays.

The Piazza Navona Christmas Market is filled with lights, carousels, and traditional sweets, while the city’s monuments – from the Colosseum to the Vatican – look even more majestic when illuminated at night.

Rome reminds travelers that Christmas is not only about gifts and glitter but also reflection and gratitude. It’s one of the most soulful Places to Spend Christmas Around the World.

Celebrate Christmas Anywhere with Rydeu

Wherever your heart takes you this Christmas – be it the snowy hills of Europe, the beaches of Australia, or the bustling streets of Tokyo – Rydeu ensures that your journey is as magical as your destination. With reliable transfers, local expertise, and comfort-focused travel experiences, you can move around with ease and make the most of your festive getaway.

Christmas is about connection – to people, to places, and to the moment. So why not make this year’s celebration extraordinary by exploring one of these stunning destinations

Final Thoughts

The beauty of Christmas lies in its universal spirit – one that brings together people from all walks of life. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa under a snowy sky or enjoying a beachside barbecue, the essence of the holiday remains the same: joy, togetherness, and love.

From Vienna’s candlelit streets to Sydney’s sunny beaches, these are truly the Best Places to Spend Christmas Around the World. Each destination offers a unique way to celebrate the season, reminding us that Christmas isn’t just a day – it’s a feeling that travels with us wherever we go.

So pack your bags, let Rydeu handle your transfers, and make your Christmas journey one to remember.