10 magical destinations to visit at Christmas

Few dates on the calendar inspire as much anticipation as Christmas, when high spirits, distinctive dishes and time-honoured traditions combine to shape celebrations across the globe. It’s also one of the most rewarding times to travel. While many return to familiar settings during the holidays, trading the in-laws’ sofa for an international adventure can deliver unforgettable memories. From festivities and cultural traditions to destinations that dazzle especially bright at this time of year, here are 10 places worth stamping your passport for this Christmas.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh’s dramatic skyline is at its most enchanting during Christmas when the city’s imposing castle is illuminated each night with a dazzling light show from late November to early January, setting the stage for a season of festivities. The celebrations spill into East Princes Street Gardens, where a sprawling open-air market brims with gifts and seasonal treats, while George Street comes alive with an ice rink, fairground rides and festive workshops. Yet all of this is just a warm-up for Edinburgh’s world-famous Hogmanay – a euphoric, multiday festival of torchlit processions, street parties, live music and fireworks that ensures the new year begins with unforgettable style.

Rovaniemi, Finland 

A Finnish city that sends shivers of delight up the spines of the young at heart, Rovaniemi is not only the capital of Lapland but also the official home of Santa Claus. In the run-up to Christmas, heavy snowfall and temperatures dropping to -10C transform it into a picture-perfect winter wonderland. At Santa Claus Village, visitors can meet the man himself, while the city’s festive spirit continues with reindeer rides, husky sledding and traditional sauna rituals. The extended hours of winter darkness also offer an enchanting chance to witness the northern lights dancing across the Arctic sky.

Bruges, Belgium 

With its cobbled medieval streets, Flemish façades and storied canals, Bruges is already one of Europe’s most enchanting locations. But in the lead up to Christmas this photogenic setting takes on an even brighter fairytale glow as twinkling light trails, open-air ice rinks and two of the continent’s most enduring Christmas markets transform the city from late November to January. In Markt Square, beneath the gaze of the Unesco-listed Belfry, rows of festively decorated wooden chalets tempt visitors with everything from handcrafted toys and souvenirs to glühwein and warm waffles. Meanwhile, the smaller market at Simon Stevinplein offers a more intimate experience, shining as a seasonal showcase for artisanal gifts and decorations.

Reykjavik, Iceland 

Iceland’s compact capital more than holds its own at Christmas when the city centre brims with festive spirit. Music fills the Harpa concert hall, a towering tree sparkles in Austurvöllur Square and seasonal highlights – from ice rinks and Christmas markets to folkloric encounters with the Yule Lads, 13 mischievous pranksters said to roam the streets – give celebrations a distinctly Icelandic flavour. Beyond the city, Reykjavik serves as the perfect gateway to the country’s natural wonders: from the Golden Circle’s frozen waterfalls and rift-shaped national parks to moments of serenity in the steaming thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.

New York, USA

Immortalised countless times on screen, a New York Christmas is one of the world’s most iconic holiday experiences. From gazing up at the Rockefeller Center tree and wandering snow-dusted paths in Central Park to marvelling at the extravagantly decorated homes of Dyker Heights or browsing Bryant Park’s European-style open-air market, the city’s traditions are festive institutions in their own right. Seasonal highlights extend further still, with after-dark illuminations at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, dazzling displays at the Bronx Zoo and Broadway stages hosting beloved annual productions such as A Christmas Carol and The Nutcracker.

Tokyo, Japan

Though Christmas Day isn’t a national holiday in Japan, Tokyo embraces the season with extravagance, making it a captivating time to visit. As temperatures drop, spectacular illuminations light up the city – from Tokyo Station and Midtown Garden to Roppongi Hills and Marunouchi – while European-style Christmas markets lend a distinctly cross-cultural flair. Sweet-toothed visitors will spot the ubiquitous strawberry-topped kurisumasu keki cake in bakeries across the capital, alongside the quirky but beloved family tradition of tucking into fried chicken on Christmas Day. For a more classic winter backdrop, northern Japan – especially the island of Hokkaido – offers deep snowfalls and popular ski resorts.

Tbilisi, Georgia 

One of this year’s trending travel destinations, Tbilisi puts on a spectacular show at Christmas. Increasingly popular for its rich history, world-class wines and generous hospitality, the Georgian capital also embraces the season with the full force of its Orthodox Christian traditions, which extend celebrations to January 7. In the lead up, impressive illuminations centred on Freedom Square cast a glow over the city’s Art Nouveau façades, while the ceremonial lighting of the New Year Tree brightens the parliament building. At Orbeliani Market, visitors can feast on gourmet hotdogs and sip mulled Saperavi wine, and the Fabrika Christmas Fair offers big band renditions of carols and a lively community spirit. For the year’s grand finale, fireworks burst across the skyline – best admired from elevated vantage points like Mtatsminda, Narikala Hill or the Tabori Monastery.

Banff, Canada

For guaranteed snow and mountain magic, the stylish resort town of Banff in the Canadian Rockies makes a spectacular setting for a winter escape. Encircled by white-capped peaks, Banff glows with festive charm, its postcard-perfect streets shimmering beneath twinkling lights. Adventurous travellers are spoiled for choice: three world-class resorts promise reliable skiing and snowboarding conditions, and ice skating and sleigh rides across Lake Louise add a storybook touch. For sweeping views, a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain reveals a panorama that more than justifies venturing out from the warmth of a cosy ski lodge.

Colmar, France

Cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and pretty canals make the 13th-century Alsace town of Colmar one of Europe’s most fairytale-like destinations. Its medieval Old Town is particularly charming in winter as its decorated streets and squares host six themed Christmas markets. The gourmet market tempts visitors with oysters and local riesling, while Place Jeanne d’Arc celebrates Alsatian traditions with artisanal vendors. Meanwhile, beneath the glow of the illuminated Koïfhus – the town’s former customs house – wooden huts brim with kitsch gifts and seasonal cheer. With its storybook charm and distinctive regional flavour, Colmar delivers a quintessential Christmas escape.

Rome, Italy

What Rome may lack in wintry weather, it more than makes up for with a festive calendar steeped in Catholic tradition. The city’s storied streets shine beneath elaborate illuminations, with the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo aglow, towering trees brightening Piazza Venezia and St Peter’s Square, and ornate nativity scenes – or presepi – displayed everywhere from shop windows to grand basilicas. On Christmas Eve, midnight mass at St Peter’s Basilica is the city’s most sought-after event, while the season also offers a chance to experience Rome’s timeless landmarks, from the Colosseum to the Roman Forum, without the crowds and in a quieter, more contemplative light.