As Christmas season is right around the corner – so is the excitement level rising to plan a mini-vacation with family. I know! I had been planning the same for quite a while, After much research and asking a bunch of people about their experiences I have come up with a list of some of the best Christmas vacation spots you must visit at least once in your life! Trust me; you won’t regret. These places are heaven on earth!
Get ready, grab a pen and a paper, (you might want to make a list of places to add in your bucket list, no?) sit back comfortably on your couch, read along and decide as I unveil to you the 10 top most travel destinations for you to have the time of your life. Though, you can add more of your choice in the comments section below!
10 Best Destinations To Enjoy Christmas Vacation 2018
1. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is the most popular volcanic island in Greece and one of the best Christmas vacation spots for tourists every year. From the architecture of Santorini – whitewashed buildings, paved paths, blue domes and multi-colored houses- to its breathtaking, awe-inspiring caldera views, lunar landscapes and stunning volcanic beaches, Santorini has it all.
Santorini sailing, on-shore hiking and rock climbing is a must. Oia Village in Santorini has one of the most breathtaking, beautiful and romantic sunsets you would not want to miss. To top it all, hotels prices get reduced especially from December to February making it an affordable trip to plan. So what are you thinking? Put Santorini on your bucket list right away. This will be one unforgettable trip you will never regret!
2. Iceland, Europe
Visiting Iceland is like a dream come true especially during Christmas and winter break. You might want to reconsider your bucket list if Iceland doesn’t make it on it! From stunning Northern Lights and firework displays to Iceland’s winter wonderland scenery and Golden Circle, Iceland has it all what it takes to have a perfect picture out of a postcard.
You can go skating at the frozen surface of Reykjavik (Iceland’s Capital) Pond or ride an Icelandic horse. Strolling through Hafnarfjörður Christmas Market with a cup of hot chocolate is another source of entertainment. Want some adrenaline rush? Take a buggy for a thrilling ride above the hills or go hiking on a glacier. Soaking in hot water spring underneath a starry sky will for sure leave you dazzled.
3. Seychelles, East Africa
Tired of the daily hustle and bustle? Bored of the same old cold nights across fire?
Reserve a flight for one deep, endless and unique experience of your life under the shining golden rays of the sun at one of the most beautiful islands of Seychelles. Christmas in Seychelles is all about beaches, food and family time. Whooping it up at the beautiful beach parties, making sandcastles, seeking pleasure in sailing, fly fishing and diving makes one hell of a trip for an adventure lover. Some of the places worth visiting are Mahé (the largest island of Seychelles), Valle de Aldabra, Vallee de Mai on Praslin and Anse Lazio – a romantic walk along the white sandy beaches of crystal water lake will give you an exhilarating experience.
4. New York, USA
Planning to head towards the USA this Christmas? New York is always a good idea!
The New York tree-lightings will amaze you. There’s nothing like Big Apple at Christmas. From the snow-covered Central Park, magical shop window displays, ice-skating at Rockefeller Center to romantic walks, delicious food and nightlife experience, there are endless incredible things to do in New York.
And if you are a foodie like me craving for a mouthwatering Christmas meal, head over to Rolf’s German Restaurant on 3rd Ave for one memorable experience of your life.
For sure there’s something in the New York air that makes sleep useless. No wonder why New York is known as the city that never sleeps! Take hold of your warm winter jacket, put on long comfy boots and get ready to have some fun for your Christmas vacation!
5. Santa Claus Village, Finland
Santa Claus Village is an amusement park in the Lapland region of Finland, 3 kilometers away from Santa Claus’s official hometown, i.e. Rovaniemi. If you want to experience the pure magic of Christmas then what could be better than meeting the Santa Claus himself that too in his hometown? Sounds Great, doesn’t it?
There are a number of Christmas themed events, snowmobile tours, snow and ice constructions, reindeer and husky rides and a lot more. Oh, and by the way meeting, Santa Claus is free of charge! Only if you don’t want a copy of your picture taken with him, then you have to pay. It is indeed by far one of the most visited Christmas vacation spot to have some quality time with Santa.
6. Palawan, Philippines.
“The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul” – Wyland
True indeed for Palawan. If you are in the mood to escape the usual and experience heaven on earth, do look out for Palawan as your new Christmas vacation spot. All you need to take with you is some cool and light clothes, swimsuits, shades and a pair of flip-flops for perfect beach tans and sun-kissed selfies.
The must visit tourists spots include Puerto Princesa Underground River in Sabang, El Nido, Coron, Balabac while local cuisine is best served at Kalui and Kinabuch. And if you’re someone like me who is not a fan of crowds and loves solitude, then diving and snorkeling at Port Barton is definitely your go-to place on your next Christmas vacation.
7. Paris, France
Paris makes one of the best Christmas vacation destinations. Why? Because there’s something out there for everyone to experience and live their life to the fullest. Paris holds a certain charm that no other city allures. From its mesmerizing architectural masterpieces to its world-famous museums and monuments, they’ll surely leave you romanticizing.
Head towards Trocadéro Christmas Markets to experience the best festive activities in one place. Secondly, Paris takes ice-skating to all new heights during the Christmas season. If you’re in the mood for ice-skating, you surely will not miss going to the first floor of Eiffel Tower – converted in an ice-skating rink. This city of lights for sure has a lot to offer. And, if you want to know what heaven feels like? Book a flight and feel the pleasure of Paris!
8. Quebec City, Canada
To embrace the perfect white Christmas spirit the beautiful Quebec City is definitely your winter gateway this holiday season. Not to forget this enchanting old city has been ranked among the Top 15 Destinations to visit during Christmas vacation by CNN. The old Quebec is metamorphosed into a real Christmas Village just like from the Novel, A Christmas Carol. Christmas Markets, European architecture, night out at Royale, swirling snow, captivating lights and dancing to folk music at the concerts and shows creates a classic Christmas holiday you are looking for. Downright breathtaking, isn’t it?
9. London, England
Looking for a magical experience this Christmas and Holiday Season? No doubt, London is the right choice! Pack your bags, book a flight and get ready for the best magical experience of your lifetime!
From Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, the largest ice-skating rink in the entire United Kingdom, Christmas shows and concerts, to warm winter foods, Christmas carols, dazzling Christmas lights, charming Christmas market at Tate Modern and Christmas Shopping, there are lots of spectacular things to do.
And if you are a Harry Potter fan, this is one crazy trip you will forever cherish. Go see the Warner Bros. Studio. During Christmas, the Great Hall and Gryffindor common room are lined by charismatic Christmas lights and trees whereas the majestic Hogwarts castle model wears a snow blanket. Such delight to the eyes!
There’s nowhere else like London. Nothing at all. Anywhere!
10. Copenhagen, Denmark
Want to have a comfortable, intimate vacation surrounded by your loved ones? Pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the genuine Christmas of your life in the world-famous small magic-like town of Copenhagen – The Tivoli Gardens! Also known for its world-famous restaurant, Noma, and one of the world’s most beautiful art galleries, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, jazz clubs, narrow streets, Baroque Churches, decorated canals of Nyhavn, Christmas markets along the Nyhavn Harbour and the Hygge are few of the famous city’s cultural attractions. Copenhagen is basically a blend of historical artifacts and modern architecture you would not miss a chance at for your Christmas vacation!
