Best Places To Travel At Christmas – Experience the Magic of the Season with Rydeu

When winter arrives, streets light up with festive cheer, carols fill the air, and the world seems wrapped in a sparkling blanket of joy. Christmas isn’t just a holiday-it’s an emotion, a time to celebrate love, warmth, and togetherness. Whether you prefer the cozy Christmas markets of Europe, the snowy wonderlands of North America, or the sun-drenched beaches in the Southern Hemisphere, the world is full of destinations that promise unforgettable memories.

If you’re wondering where to go this festive season, we’ve created a complete guide to the Best Places To Travel At Christmas, from snowy mountain towns to glittering cities that never sleep. And when it comes to smooth, comfortable, and hassle-free transportation, Rydeu ensures your Christmas vacation begins the moment you land.

1. Vienna, Austria – A Fairytale Christmas City

Vienna transforms into a magical realm during Christmas. The Austrian capital boasts some of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to the 13th century. The Vienna Christmas Market at Rathausplatz is a dream come true for anyone who loves festive vibes. Stroll through the wooden stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, sip hot mulled wine, and indulge in freshly baked strudels.

The Belvedere Palace and Schönbrunn Palace are also dressed in lights, creating postcard-perfect backdrops. Vienna’s elegant blend of imperial charm and festive warmth makes it one of the Best Places To Travel for Christmas for couples and families alike.

Tip: Don’t miss a performance of “The Nutcracker” at the Vienna State Opera-a Christmas tradition that feels truly magical.

2. Prague, Czech Republic – Where Gothic Meets Glitter

Prague, with its cobblestone streets and Gothic cathedrals, looks like it’s been pulled straight out of a storybook in winter. The Old Town Square Christmas Market is one of the most famous in Europe, with a gigantic Christmas tree standing tall against the backdrop of the Astronomical Clock.

Sip on traditional Czech Svarák (hot wine) as you admire wooden toys, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. The air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and cinnamon, making every walk around the city unforgettable.

During December, Prague Castle and Charles Bridge glow under twinkling lights, making it one of the Best Places To Travel At Christmas for photography lovers and romantics.

3. Lapland, Finland – Home of Santa Claus

If there’s one place that defines Christmas, it’s Lapland. Located in the northernmost part of Finland, Lapland is the ultimate Christmas destination. Meet Santa Claus himself in Rovaniemi, his official hometown, where kids can hand-deliver their wish lists and take pictures with reindeer.

The snow-covered forests, husky sled rides, and Northern Lights make this Arctic paradise one of the most magical Best Places To Travel for Christmas. You can stay in a glass igloo and watch the aurora dance above you-an experience that feels almost unreal.

Must-do: Visit Santa Claus Village and cross the Arctic Circle for a truly once-in-a-lifetime Christmas adventure.

4. New York City, USA – The Christmas Capital of the World

Few cities capture the Christmas spirit quite like New York City. From the gigantic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the ice-skating rink at Central Park, every corner of NYC is infused with festive energy.

The Fifth Avenue window displays, the dazzling lights at Times Square, and the Christmas markets at Bryant Park are all bucket-list experiences. Watch the Radio City Christmas Spectacular or take a stroll through Brooklyn’s Dyker Heights to see some of the most extravagant home decorations in the country.

New York during Christmas is not just a destination-it’s an experience that defines holiday magic, making it one of the Best Places To Travel At Christmas if you love big-city celebrations.

5. Strasbourg, France – The Capital of Christmas

Strasbourg proudly calls itself “The Capital of Christmas,” and for good reason. Hosting one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets (dating back to 1570), this French-German border city transforms into a winter wonderland in December.

The entire city center- particularly around the Cathedral of Notre Dame-is lit up with thousands of twinkling lights. The market stalls offer everything from Alsatian wines and pastries to handmade ornaments and wooden crafts.

For travelers looking for traditional charm with a touch of elegance, Strasbourg remains one of the Best Places To Travel for Christmas in Europe.

6. Nuremberg, Germany – A Traditional Bavarian Christmas

Germany is synonymous with Christmas markets, but Nuremberg holds a special place in everyone’s heart. Its Christkindlesmarkt attracts millions of visitors every year, making it one of the most famous markets in the world.

Enjoy a warm Bratwurst, taste the city’s iconic gingerbread cookies, and sip hot spiced wine while snow gently falls over the medieval streets. Children will love the Toy Museum and the Christmas carousel, while adults can enjoy the cozy taverns and live carol performances.

Nuremberg offers an authentic, heartwarming Christmas vibe that ranks high among the Best Places To Travel At Christmas for those who adore tradition and festive food.

7. London, England – A Timeless Winter Wonderland

London becomes even more enchanting during Christmas. The city is decked out in spectacular lights, with Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden turning into glittering displays of joy.

The Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is one of the largest Christmas festivals in Europe, complete with ice rinks, rides, circus shows, and festive markets. Meanwhile, landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge provide a stunning backdrop to your holiday photos.

For a more traditional experience, attend a carol service at Westminster Abbey or St. Paul’s Cathedral. London truly represents the spirit of Christmas, making it one of the Best Places To Travel for Christmas for all kinds of travelers.

8. Quebec City, Canada – A Snow-Covered Dream

Imagine a town blanketed in snow, lit up with festive lanterns, and echoing with carols—that’s Quebec City in December. With its French charm, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture, it’s often called “Europe in North America.”

The German Christmas Market here creates a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere, while the Old Town feels like a real-life Christmas village. If you enjoy winter sports, nearby resorts offer skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.

For anyone who loves a white Christmas and Old World charm, Quebec City stands out as one of the Best Places To Travel At Christmas.

9. Tokyo, Japan – A Dazzling Modern Celebration

While Christmas isn’t a traditional holiday in Japan, Tokyo celebrates it with unmatched grandeur. The city’s illumination festivals are some of the most stunning in the world. Streets like Shibuya, Roppongi Hills, and Marunouchi turn into rivers of light.

Couples flock to the city for romantic dinners and light shows, while families enjoy festive performances and shopping. Japanese bakeries sell delicious Christmas cakes, and the overall mood is cheerful and bright.

Tokyo gives a modern, unique twist to Christmas, making it one of the Best Places To Travel for Christmas if you want something different yet magical.

10. Zurich, Switzerland – Alpine Beauty Meets Christmas Spirit

Switzerland is stunning all year round, but Zurich during Christmas feels extra special. The Christkindlimarkt inside Zurich Main Train Station is one of Europe’s largest indoor markets, featuring a 15-meter-tall Christmas tree adorned with Swarovski crystals.

Walk along the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most beautiful shopping streets, or enjoy a cup of hot chocolate by Lake Zurich as the snow falls gently around you. The surrounding Alps also make for a perfect winter escape, ideal for skiing or snowboarding.

Zurich offers elegance, tradition, and the perfect festive mood-making it one of the Best Places To Travel At Christmas for luxury lovers and adventure seekers alike.

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

If snow isn’t your thing, Sydney offers a completely different kind of Christmas- sunny, sandy, and spectacular. Here, you can celebrate Christmas on the beach, attend outdoor concerts, and enjoy fireworks over Sydney Harbour.

Bondi Beach becomes the center of attention, with locals and tourists coming together for barbecues, games, and festive gatherings. Sydney’s Carols in the Domain is one of the country’s largest Christmas events, spreading joy under the summer sky.

For travelers wanting to escape the cold and embrace a tropical holiday season, Sydney is among the Best Places To Travel for Christmas.

12. Salzburg, Austria – The Birthplace of “Silent Night”

Few cities can match the serene beauty of Salzburg at Christmas. The birthplace of Mozart and the carol “Silent Night”, Salzburg combines music, history, and festive joy perfectly.

The Salzburg Christkindlmarkt near the cathedral is a delightful mix of tradition and warmth. Add to that the snow-covered Alps in the background and the sound of choirs echoing through the streets, and you have a Christmas straight out of a dream.

Salzburg is one of the Best Places To Travel At Christmas for those seeking peace, charm, and classical music vibes.

13. Reykjavik, Iceland – Where the Northern Lights Dance Over Christmas

If you’re chasing something extraordinary this Christmas, Reykjavik offers it all: snowy landscapes, cozy cottages, and a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Iceland’s capital celebrates with twinkling lights, lively markets, and delicious holiday foods like smoked lamb and gingerbread. You can also soak in a geothermal hot spring under the stars- a surreal Christmas experience.

Reykjavik ranks high among the Best Places To Travel for Christmas for adventurers who love winter magic and natural beauty.

14. Bruges, Belgium – A Medieval Christmas Fairyland

With its canals, medieval buildings, and cobbled streets, Bruges looks like it’s made for Christmas. The Markt Square becomes a festive hub filled with stalls, an ice rink, and horse-drawn carriages.

Taste Belgian waffles, sip hot chocolate, and shop for artisanal gifts while surrounded by fairytale architecture. Bruges is intimate, charming, and endlessly photogenic- one of the Best Places To Travel At Christmas if you’re looking for romance and peace.

Why Choose Rydeu for Your Christmas Travels?

Traveling during Christmas can be overwhelming with crowds, busy airports, and unpredictable weather, but with Rydeu, your journey becomes effortless. Whether you need an airport transfer, an intercity ride, or a sightseeing trip, Rydeu offers:

• Affordable rides with transparent pricing
  
• Comfortable vehicles suited for solo travelers, couples, or families
  
• 24/7 customer support for a stress-free experience
  
• Local professional drivers who know the best festive routes
  

From Vienna’s snowy streets to Sydney’s sunny shores, Rydeu ensures that your Christmas vacation is smooth, safe, and full of festive spirit.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate Christmas the Way You Dream It

Whether you want to sip mulled wine in Vienna, ice skate in New York, chase the Northern Lights in Iceland, or relax under the Australian sun, there’s a perfect destination waiting for you this holiday season.

Each of these Best Places To Travel At Christmas offers something unique: tradition, joy, beauty, and the magic that only this time of year can bring. So pack your bags, book your rides with Rydeu, and make this Christmas one to remember.

Because no matter where you go, Christmas is not just a destination, it’s a feeling.