Best Christmas Destinations and Markets Around the World
The holiday season has a way of bringing out the magic in all of us. Whether you’re dreaming of classic Christmas charm, twinkling lights, small-town coziness, or the full sensory experience of European Christmas markets, these destinations capture the spirit of the season beautifully. If you’re searching for the best Christmas destinations and markets, this list highlights the most magical spots around the world.
Below, you’ll find the best Christmas towns in the U.S., the most enchanting Christmas markets in Europe, and even the top river cruises that let you explore multiple markets in one unforgettable trip.
Best Christmas Destinations and Markets in the United States
1. New York City, New York
There’s nothing like Christmas in New York. From the Rockefeller Center tree to Fifth Avenue window displays, skating under the lights, and wandering Bryant Park’s Winter Village, the city glows from every corner. I personally head into the city every December for the Christmas Spectacular to see the Rockettes, and it is always magical!
Tip: Visit the Saks Fifth Avenue light show right at dusk, before the crowds peak.
Fun Fact: The Rockefeller tree tradition began in 1931 with a 20-foot tree put up by construction workers during the Great Depression.
Things to do in NYC during the Christmas season:
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular
New York City Christmas Holiday Statue and Skyline Cocoa Cruise
New York City Christmas Holiday Lights and Markets Walking Tour
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Guided Tour
Top of the Rock Observation Deck New York City Ticket
2. Solvang, California
This Danish-inspired village is one of the most charming Christmas towns in the U.S. Think European Christmas energy, windmills dressed in lights, Scandinavian bakeries, mulled wine (gløgg), and festive events throughout the month.
Tip: Don’t skip the Julefest parade and evening candlelight tours, they’re the most magical part of the season.
Fun Fact: Solvang was founded by Danish immigrants in 1911, and its architecture intentionally mirrors Copenhagen.
Watch the movie: A Very Charming Christmas Town
It takes place in Solvang (this is how I first heard of it), and it is about a Travel and lifestyle blogger, Aubrey Lang, who leaves the big city behind and visits the small town of Solvang for a Christmas vlog piece, after it’s voted ‘Most Christmassy Town’ in the USA.
3. Leavenworth, Washington
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth transforms into a storybook-style Bavarian Christmas village every December, glowing with its famous Village of Lights display that spans more than half a million twinkling bulbs. Visitors can wander among carolers, indulge in traditional German food, browse the festive Christkindlmarket filled with handcrafted Bavarian goods, and even enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides through the illuminated streets.
Tip: Book accommodations early; December sells out months in advance.
Fun Fact: The town wasn’t originally Bavarian, its themed transformation in the 1960s saved it from economic collapse.
Key Christmas Attractions in Leavenworth
Village of Lights:: Leavenworth’s famous Village of Lights turns the entire town into a glowing alpine wonderland. More than 500,000 sparkling lights illuminate the streets at dusk throughout select weekends in December, creating a magical holiday atmosphere everywhere you look.
Christkindlmarkt: Leavenworth’s Christkindlmarkt brings authentic Bavarian flair to Washington with festive food stalls, artisan crafts, and live entertainment. It’s the closest you’ll get to a traditional German Christmas market without leaving the country.
Live Holiday Performances: Music fills the village all season long, from classic carolers and handbell choirs to local bands. The continuous live performances create a nostalgic holiday soundtrack as you wander through town.
German Food and Festive Drinks: Warm pretzels, bratwursts, schnitzels, and mugs of glühwein (traditional mulled wine) make the holiday experience even cozier. The food scene is one of the highlights of visiting Leavenworth in December.
Winter Activities: If the weather cooperates, you can spend your day sledding, wandering snowy trails, or taking a festive horse-drawn carriage ride through the illuminated streets. It’s a true winter wonderland experience.
The Gingerbread Factory: A must-stop for holiday sweets, The Gingerbread Factory serves adorable, elaborately decorated gingerbread cookies and warm baked treats. It’s festive, delicious, and perfect for photos.
Planning Your Visit to Leavenworth
Expect Crowds: Leavenworth is one of the most popular Christmas destinations in the United States, and December weekends can get extremely crowded. If you prefer a slower pace, visit during the week for a more relaxed experience.
Book Accommodations Early: Hotels and rentals fill up quickly, often nearly a year in advance. If you’re planning a December trip, it’s best to reserve your stay as early as possible.
Prepare for Winter Weather: December in the North Cascades can bring snow, icy conditions, and freezing temperatures. Mountain passes may require chains or experience occasional closures, so always check road conditions before heading out and be prepared for winter driving.
4. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s Christkindlmarket is widely considered the best European-style market in the U.S. Add in the Magnificent Mile lights, Millennium Park skating, the Macy’s holiday windows, and you have a perfect holiday getaway.
Tip: Grab a collectible Christkindlmarket mug—they release a new design every year.
Fun Fact: Chicago’s market is modeled after the famous Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt in Germany.
Things to do in Chicago during the Christmas Season:
Chicago-Style Holiday Hike: Festive Food and Walking Tour
The Christmas Tree Crawl Experience Chicago at the Holidays
5. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Nicknamed “Christmas City,” Bethlehem blends history with cozy holiday charm. From live music to traditional markets and warm streets filled with twinkling lights, it’s a nostalgic and heartwarming destination.
Tip: Visit the Moravian Book Shop, the oldest bookstore in the world still in operation.
Fun Fact: The city was named Bethlehem on Christmas Eve in 1741.
Key Attractions and Activities in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Christkindlmarkt: Bethlehem’s Christkindlmarkt brings an authentic European holiday feel to Pennsylvania with artisan vendors, festive foods, and live demonstrations. Expect everything from ice carving and glass blowing to unique handcrafted gifts you won’t find anywhere else.
Historic Main Street: The town’s historic Main Street becomes the centerpiece of Christmas in Bethlehem, lined with decorated wooden huts, glowing lights, and holiday storefronts. The entire area feels like stepping into a classic Christmas village.
Historic Hotel Bethlehem: This iconic hotel is a landmark of the season, fully adorned with elaborate holiday décor. Even if you’re not staying overnight, its restaurants and festive atmosphere make it worth a visit.
Christmas City Stroll: A guided walking tour offers a deeper look at the city’s Moravian history and holiday traditions. Evening lantern tours add an extra layer of charm and nostalgia during the Christmas season.
Ice Skating and Seasonal Activities: Downtown Bethlehem features an outdoor ice skating rink along with cozy seasonal touches like fire pits, warm drinks, and private igloos you can reserve for a festive winter experience.
Bethlehem by Night: For a magical nighttime perspective, hop on a Bethlehem by Night bus tour. You’ll see the city’s glowing holiday lights, historic buildings, and festive landmarks illuminated after dark.
6. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville transforms into a magical holiday destination each December, with Christmas at the Biltmore as its showstopping centerpiece. America’s largest home becomes a full holiday spectacle, decorated with more than 100 Christmas trees, 25,000 ornaments, and over 100,000 lights, and both daytime tours and the enchanting Candlelight Christmas Evenings require advance reservations.
The North Carolina Arboretum also puts on a breathtaking Winter Lights display featuring more than a million twinkling lights, illuminated garden scenes, and a towering 50-foot animated tree. Visitors can head to the Omni Grove Park Inn to see the National Gingerbread Competition, which showcases incredibly detailed gingerbread creations made by artists from all over the country.
Downtown Asheville adds to the festive atmosphere with holiday decorations, unique shops, and cozy restaurants perfect for warming up between activities. Families and nostalgic travelers can take a ride on The Polar Express from nearby Bryson City, while performing arts lovers can enjoy seasonal productions like The Nutcracker and other holiday shows around town.
For more low-key festivities, Lake Julian Park offers a drive-through Festival of Lights that’s perfect for a relaxing evening. And to make your trip even more memorable, consider staying in one of Asheville’s charming log cabins or whimsical treehouse rentals, which bring an extra touch of holiday magic to your winter escape.
Tip: Choose the Candlelight Christmas Evening experience at the Biltmore for maximum ambiance.
Fun Fact: The Biltmore holds the record for the most Christmas trees under one roof in the U.S.
7. Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg offers one of the most unique and nostalgic Christmas experiences in the United States, blending colonial history with timeless holiday charm. During December, Colonial Williamsburg is transformed by hand-crafted wreaths, fresh greenery, lanterns glowing in the windows, and traditional décor made entirely from natural materials, staying true to 18th-century style. Visitors can enjoy Grand Illumination events with fireworks, musical performances, and seasonal festivities that make the entire town feel like a step back in time. Merchant Square becomes a cozy hub of holiday shopping, warm treats, and festive decorations, while the historic taverns offer candlelit dinners that feel straight out of a storybook. Explore the historic sites by day, then return in the evening for guided tours lit only by lanterns, giving the entire experience an atmospheric glow. Whether you love history, classic Christmas traditions, or charming small-town celebrations, Williamsburg delivers a warm and unforgettable holiday escape.
Tip: Visit during Grand Illumination for fireworks and festivities.
Fun Fact: Decorations are made from natural materials only, like fruit, greens, and dried flowers, staying true to colonial traditions.
8. Park City, Utah
Park City is the perfect destination if you’re dreaming of a picturesque, snow-covered Christmas in the mountains. The historic Main Street glows with twinkling lights draped along charming old buildings, creating an enchanting winter backdrop for shopping, dining, and exploring. Ski season is in full swing in December, making it an ideal place for outdoor lovers who want to spend their days on the slopes and their evenings by a cozy fire. Visitors can take a magical ride on the Town Lift at night for sweeping views of the holiday lights below, and festive events like the Electric Parade, torchlight ski runs, and Santa sightings add to the seasonal excitement. Beyond skiing, you can enjoy snowshoeing, tubing, sleigh rides, and après-ski lounges that offer the perfect warm-up after a day in the snow. Park City blends luxury, adventure, and holiday charm seamlessly, making it an unforgettable place to celebrate Christmas or kick off your winter travels.
Tip: Ride the Town Lift at night for a magical view of Main Street’s holiday lights.
Fun Fact: Park City is home to the largest ski resort in the U.S.
Best Christmas Destinations and Markets in Europe
1. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is classic, elegant, and overflowing with Christmas charm. The city’s markets are known for handcrafted ornaments, mulled wine, and stunning classical music performances.
Tip: Head to the Christmas Market at Schönbrunn Palace for fewer crowds and regal surroundings.
Fun Fact: Vienna has more than 20 official Christmas markets every year.
Things to do in Vienna during the Christmas Season:
Christmas and New Year Concert at St. Peter’s Church in Vienna
Schönbrunn Palace Concerts in Vienna
Christmas Markets & Shopping in Vienna
Vienna: Festive Advent, Christmas and New Year concerts
Private Christmas Markets Walking Tour Vienna
Christmas at Schönbrunn Palace Vienna: Classical Concert and Christmas Market
2. Strasbourg, France
Called the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg hosts one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in the world. Half-timbered houses and glowing lights make the whole city feel magical.
Tip: Try the vin chaud blanc—white mulled wine unique to Alsace.
Fun Fact: Strasbourg’s market dates all the way back to 1570.
Things to do in Strasbourg during the Christmas season:
Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg
Strasbourg the Capital of Christmas Private Walking Tour
Strasbourg Christmas Magic Self Guided Walking Tour with an APP
Strasbourg Food Tour – A Taste of Tradition by Do Eat Better
3. Munich, Germany
Munich offers traditional Bavarian markets filled with pretzels, gingerbread, handcrafted gifts, and cozy holiday charm.
Tip: Visit the Medieval Market for unique entertainment and artisan goods.
Fun Fact: Munich’s main market, Marienplatz, has been a Christmas tradition for over 700 years.
Things to do in Munich during the Christmas Season:
Christmas Markets Food Tour in Munich
Winter Tour to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich
Munich: Neuschwanstein by Bus & with opt. Munich XMAS Market Tour
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague becomes one of the most enchanting cities in Europe during the holiday season, with its Gothic spires, cobblestone streets, and historic squares glowing under thousands of twinkling lights. The Old Town Square Christmas Market feels straight out of a fairytale, complete with wooden stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, warm pastries, mulled wine, and festive treats you can enjoy while listening to live carols echoing through the square. The backdrop of the Astronomical Clock and Týn Church makes the entire scene feel cinematic. Wander over to Wenceslas Square and the Prague Castle complex for additional markets, each offering different regional foods, crafts, and holiday specialties. The city’s dramatic architecture, combined with the cozy winter atmosphere, creates an unforgettable Christmas experience that feels both magical and deeply nostalgic.
Tip: Climb the Astronomical Clock Tower for postcard-perfect market views.
Fun Fact: Prague’s markets stay open through New Year’s Eve—longer than most European cities.
5. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is pure holiday charm, blending Scandinavian coziness with festive whimsy. The heart of the season is Tivoli Gardens, which transforms into a glowing winter wonderland filled with sparkling lights, decorated trees, charming stalls, rides, and holiday performances. It’s one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, and during Christmas, it becomes one of the most magical places in Europe. Beyond Tivoli, the city sparkles with beautifully lit streets, waterside markets, and plenty of opportunities to experience true Danish hygge, think warm drinks, candlelit cafés, and cozy corners perfect for escaping the winter chill. Nyhavn, with its iconic colorful buildings, becomes even more photogenic during the holidays as the harbor glows with festive lights. Copenhagen’s mix of elegance, warmth, and Scandinavian simplicity makes it a charming place to celebrate the season.
Tip: Go right when Tivoli opens to capture the best photos without crowds.
Fun Fact: Tivoli is the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world.
6. London, England
London mixes festive charm with big-city energy—Winter Wonderland, Covent Garden, Regent Street lights, and holiday markets across the city.
Tip: Don’t miss the Southbank Centre Winter Market for great food and riverside views.
Fun Fact: The giant angels on Regent Street are the largest Christmas light installation in the U.K.
Things to do in London during the Christmas season:
London by Night Bus Tour with Christmas Lights and Live Guide
Christmas Lights Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
Christmas Lights Walking Tour at London
Original Harry Potter Locations Tour – Guided Tour of London
London Christmas Lights Guided Tour With Christmas Music
7. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is one of Europe’s most underrated Christmas destinations, offering a holiday atmosphere that is both grand and intimate. The city hosts several Christmas markets, but the most famous one sits in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica, where you’ll find artisan crafts, Hungarian dishes, mulled wine, and a stunning nightly light show projected onto the basilica’s façade. Vörösmarty Square’s market is another festive hub, filled with handmade gifts, folk art, chimney cakes, and cozy wooden stalls. Beyond the markets, the entire city glows with beautiful decorations, from the Chain Bridge to the Buda Castle District. Warm up in one of the city’s iconic thermal spas after a night of exploring, or take a stroll along the Danube to see the Parliament building lit up against the winter sky. Budapest combines affordability, culture, and incredible holiday ambiance, making it a dreamy yet accessible Christmas getaway.
Tip: The market at St. Stephen’s Basilica features a 3D projection show every night.
Fun Fact: Budapest consistently ranks among Europe’s most affordable Christmas market cities.
8. Edinburgh, Scotland (my favorite place in the world)
Edinburgh becomes one of Europe’s most magical cities during the Christmas season, blending its dramatic medieval architecture with festive lights, cozy markets, and a warm holiday spirit that fills every cobblestone street. The city’s Christmas Market stretches along Princes Street Gardens with wooden stalls offering handmade crafts, mulled cider, traditional treats, and local Scottish specialties. Nearby, you’ll find carnival rides, twinkling light displays, and an atmosphere that feels both whimsical and historic. Stroll along the Royal Mile to enjoy beautifully decorated storefronts and street performers, or warm up in one of Edinburgh’s centuries-old pubs for a true Scottish holiday experience. The city’s skyline, dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, glows beautifully at night, creating a breathtaking backdrop for evening walks. Add in festive concerts, storytelling events, and Hogmanay (Edinburgh’s legendary New Year celebration), and you have one of the most memorable holiday destinations in the world.
Tip: Book a lunch or dinner reservation at The Dome for the most spectacular meal with a view of their gigantic Christmas tree!
Things to do in Edinburgh during the Christmas season:
Edinburgh’s Christmas Lights and festive Black Taxi Tour
Edinburgh Christmas Tour, Highlights & Hidden Gems with a Local
Festive Flavors of Edinburgh: Holiday Donut Adventure Tour
The Original Edinburgh Pub Crawl
Best Christmas Destinations and Markets for River Cruises
European river cruises are one of the best ways to see multiple Christmas markets without the stress of trains, repacking, or navigating new cities every day. You unpack once—and wake up in a new festive town each morning.
Here are the top Christmas river cruises:
1. Viking River Cruises: Christmas on the Rhine
Stops include: Basel, Strasbourg, Heidelberg, Cologne, Amsterdam
Known for cozy luxury, immersive excursions, and world-class holiday experiences.
2. AmaWaterways: Christmas Markets on the Danube
Stops include: Budapest, Vienna, Linz, Passau, Nuremberg
Perfect for travelers who want a mix of big cities, small towns, and iconic markets.
3. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises: Classic Christmas Markets
Stops include: Regensburg, Passau, Vienna, Budapest
Uniworld ships feel like boutique hotels—glamorous, intimate, and beautifully decorated for Christmas.
4. Avalon Waterways: Festive Time on the Rhine
Stops include: Cologne, Rüdesheim, Heidelberg, Strasbourg
Avalon ships have floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows—perfect for seeing Europe light up at night.
5. Tauck: Yuletide Spirit
Stops include: Regensburg, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest
A premium, guided experience with exclusive holiday events.
How to Plan a Trip to the Best Christmas Destinations and Markets
Whether you’re dreaming of twinkling lights, historic markets, cozy small-town charm, or a magical European getaway, the holidays are the perfect time to explore somewhere new. Each destination brings its own version of festive joy, and no matter where you go, you’ll come home filled with that warm, nostalgic glow only the holiday season can bring.
If you want help planning your next trip or choosing which Christmas destination fits your personality, I’d love to support you. Reach out to me here: https://www.foratravel.com/advisor/alessia-tenebruso
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