We love spending the holidays at home with loved ones, but nothing beats seeing how cities across the globe light up during December. The best destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve range from Europe’s charming Christmas markets to Asia’s dazzling light displays. You can even find spots in the southern hemisphere where it’s warm enough to sip cocktails by the pool on Christmas Day! Each destination has its own way of spreading holiday cheer, but these places make the season magical year after year.
If you already have plans for this season, it’s never too early to start planning your 2025 winter getaway to one of the best destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve! Explore these festive spots for unforgettable celebrations.
1. Christmas Town in Pennsylvania
For over 30 years, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, has lived up to its name by transforming into “Christmas City” during the holidays. At the heart of the celebration is the Christkindlmarkt at SteelStacks, where over 50 booths showcase artisan crafts, live music, and even visits from Santa Claus. One unique highlight is the “live” advent calendar at the Goundie House on Main Street. Every evening at 5:30 pm, a local merchant appears with treats for everyone waiting. If you’re looking for the perfect holiday stay, Hotel Bethlehem is a festive wonderland with 35,000 Christmas lights, 36 wreaths, life-sized toy soldiers, and a gingerbread house modeled after the hotel itself. This cozy town will leave you feeling the true magic of the season.
2. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, Belgium, is undoubtedly one of the best places in Europe for Christmas. This medieval city turns into a festive wonderland, with its cobblestone streets sparkling under twinkling lights and cozy cafés offering rich Belgian hot chocolate. To truly soak in the holiday magic, follow the Winter Glow light trail, showcasing 10 breathtaking displays throughout the historic city center. Notable highlights include the shimmering Church of Our Lady Tower and a captivating projection at Gruuthuse.
For an unforgettable stay, book a room at Grand Hotel Casselbergh, just steps away from the Markt. The hotel offers rooms with exposed wooden beams, a lobby bar with a fireplace, and a wellness center in a 16th-century cellar.
3. Escape Winter With Cape Town
Cape Town is one of the ideal destinations for Christmas if you’re looking to trade chilly weather for sunny skies. With summer in full swing in the Southern Hemisphere, you can explore Cape Town’s festive holiday markets in shorts and flip-flops instead of heavy winter coats. A must-visit highlight is Boulders Beach, home to 2,000-3,000 African penguins. These adorable creatures might not be Santa’s helpers, but they’ll definitely make your holiday unforgettable—and you can capture some amazing close-up photos too!
For a serene retreat, reserve a room at the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, where bright, breezy accommodations overlook the breathtaking Atlantic Ocean—an ideal escape from winter gloom. Cape Town stands out as one of the best Christmas holiday destinations, offering warm weather and an unforgettable festive season to make your holiday truly special.
4. Chicago
Chicago is one of the best destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, with its Christkindlmarket and light-filled streets. The 55-foot Christmas tree in Millennium Park is a must-see, and don’t miss the cozy heated igloos at The Godfrey Hotel for some warm festive fun. If you’re in the mood for even more holiday cheer, check out ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo, where 2.5 million LEDs light up the night sky! They even offer sensory-friendly times to enjoy the magic.
For a luxurious stay, The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, which recently completed a $100 million renovation, offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and Navy Pier from its elegant suites. While you’re there, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in a festive afternoon tea or savor a lavish five-course truffle dinner at the hotel’s acclaimed Torali restaurant—one of the top restaurants for New Year’s Eve in the city.
5. Copenhagen
Copenhagen, one of the happiest cities in the world, is one of the best places for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Tivoli Gardens turns into a winter wonderland, with festive rides and a charming Christmas market that sells unique gifts and treats. The park even decorates its grand Christmas tree with dazzling Swarovski crystals. To really feel the holiday spirit, enjoy a traditional Danish meal at Restaurant Vita, where you can savor andesteg—crispy roast duck with prunes and apples. For a cozy stay, Hotel Sanders takes Danish hygge to the next level, offering the ultimate comfort.
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6. Dubai
Dubai is the ultimate destination for a luxurious Christmas Day getaway and a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration. The city comes alive with dazzling Christmas tree lightings at iconic spots like Towers Rotana and Fairmont The Palm. Get into the festive spirit by joining the Santa Run, where Santas take to the streets for a lively sprint!
Explore vibrant Christmas markets for unique holiday shopping, and don’t miss Dubai Mall, which transforms into a magical winter wonderland. With an ice skating rink and indoor ski slopes at Ski Dubai, it’s a holiday experience like no other! For a luxurious stay, the Jumeirah Al Naseem offers elegant rooms, easy access to the beach, and top-notch dining and spa experiences.
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7. Dublin
Dublin is among the best places in Europe for Christmas and a lively spot to ring in New Year’s Eve! If you enjoy a classic Irish pub crawl, this city is a must-visit. Imagine warming up on chilly nights with black pudding and a few pints in Dublin’s charming bars. Beyond the pub scene, the city offers cheerful Christmas markets, beautifully adorned shops along Grafton Street, and magical tree-lighting ceremonies to complete your festive experience.
To get into the holiday spirit, don’t miss The Moving Crib at St. Martin Apostolate, where charming mechanical figures have delighted families for 66 years with scenes like Noah’s Ark. For a luxurious stay, The Westbury offers stunning views of the sparkling lights on Grafton Street, making afternoon tea even more magical.
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8. Christmas in Inari, Finland
If you’re dreaming of a magical winter holiday, skip the crowds in Rovaniemi and head to Inari, Finland! This charming village is located deep in the Ivalo region and is just a 1.5-hour flight from Helsinki. Inari is a true winter wonderland, perfect for cozy hotels and restaurants. You can enjoy an authentic holiday experience by riding dog sleds, feeding reindeer, and chasing the stunning Northern Lights.
To really get into the holiday spirit, treat yourself to a private Northern Lights safari. Picture yourself in a heated sleigh, sipping sparkling wine, while you wait for the breathtaking aurora to light up the sky.
For a unique Christmas Day getaway, book a stay at Aurora Village, renowned for its stunning glass-igloo accommodations. These cozy cabins feature heated windows, ensuring crystal-clear panoramic views of the wintry landscape. Don’t miss the daily reindeer feedings, adding a magical touch to your experience. Inari truly stands out as one of the best places to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve!
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9. Kennebunkport, Maine
Looking for unforgettable Christmas holiday destinations? Kennebunkport, Maine, is the perfect choice! This picturesque New England town sparkles during the Christmas Prelude, an 11-day festival from December 1 to 11, brimming with holiday joy. A unique highlight is the impressive Christmas tree crafted entirely from lobster traps, reflecting the town’s coastal charm. While you’re there, make sure to stop by The Clam Shack for lobster rolls, renowned as the best in Maine—leaving you craving their delicious flavors over traditional gingerbread!
To really get in the holiday spirit, catch Santa’s arrival at the Christmas Prelude, where he arrives on a lobster boat—definitely a sight to see!
For a luxurious Christmas holiday destination, reserve a stay at the White Barn Inn, where New England charm meets festive magic. Indulge in holiday treats like Christmas cookies, eggnog by the cozy fire, and exquisite meals at one of the finest restaurants for New Year’s Eve. Kennebunkport offers a perfect blend of seasonal cheer and elegance, making it one of the top spots to celebrate the holidays in style.
10. Christmas Paradise in the Maldives!
Dreaming of a white Christmas? Head to the Maldives in December for dazzling white sands instead of snow! While the Maldives may not officially celebrate Christmas, many resorts offer festive dinners and decorations to welcome Western travelers. But let’s be honest—you’ll likely be too busy enjoying spa treatments and snorkeling to notice the holiday trimmings.
If you’re after a touch of holiday cheer, make your way to Conrad Maldives Rangali Island for a magical tree lighting ceremony on December 21, followed by cocktails on the beach. It’s a great way to embrace the holiday spirit in paradise!
For your stay, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is one of the top resorts in the Maldives, known for its luxurious suites and stunning underwater restaurant, Ithaa. If you visit during the holiday season, you can indulge in champagne and lobster beach barbecues, lavish pool parties, winter-themed spa treatments, and even special underwater dining experiences on Christmas Day.
CHECKOUT 10 All Inclusive Accommodation Maldives To Transform Your Vacation into a Dream!
11. Celebrate in Style: Times Square New Year’s Eve 2025
Every year on December 31, the world turns its attention to the dazzling lights and lively energy of Times Square New Year’s Eve. Anticipation builds as this iconic celebration becomes more than just an event—it’s a global tradition. As the famous New Year’s Eve Ball drops, millions gather in Times Square and across the globe to bid farewell to the year and welcome the next with hope and joy.
Whether you’re looking for unforgettable destinations for Christmas or planning to experience the magic of Times Square firsthand, this celebration offers a unique way to end the year in style. Join the world this December for Times Square New Year’s Eve 2025!
HAPPY NEW YEAR AND HAPPY READING!
