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 2024 winter getaway to one of the best destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve! Explore these festive spots for unforgettable celebrations.
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10 Best Destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve You Won’t Want to Miss!
This Christmas Town in Pennsylvania Will Make You Believe in Holiday Magic!
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.
Why Bruges, Belgium Is the Most Magical Destination for Christmas and New Year’s Eve!
Bruges, Belgium, is one of the best destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. This medieval gem transforms into a holiday wonderland with cobblestone streets twinkling under festive lights and cozy cafés serving rich Belgian hot chocolate. To fully embrace the spirit of the season, follow the Winter Glow light trail, featuring 10 stunning displays throughout the historic city center. Highlights include the dazzling Church of Our Lady Tower and an enchanting 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. Bruges is truly one of the most magical destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Escape Winter With Cape Town
Cape Town is the perfect destination if you want to escape the cold for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Since it’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere, you can visit Cape Town’s holiday markets in shorts and flip-flops instead of bundling up in winter gear. One of the most unique experiences is visiting Boulders Beach, home to 2,000-3,000 African penguins. These cute little creatures might not be Santa’s elves, but they’re sure to bring a smile to your face, and you can even snap close-up photos of them!
For a relaxing stay, book a room at the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, where light, airy rooms sit above the stunning Atlantic Ocean—perfect for curing any winter blues. Cape Town is truly one of the top destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, offering a warm and unforgettable holiday experience.
Chicago’s Holiday Magic Will Warm Your Heart—Even in the Cold!
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 recently underwent a $100 million renovation and offers incredible views of Lake Michigan and Navy Pier from its suites. Be sure to indulge in a festive afternoon tea or a lavish five-course truffle dinner at the hotel’s renowned Torali restaurant. Chicago is truly one of the most festive destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Copenhagen This Holiday Season!
Copenhagen, one of the happiest cities in the world, is a magical destination 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. Copenhagen truly shines as one of the best destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, where joy and cheer fill the air.
ALSO READ: 10 Best Hotels in Copenhagen Denmark: Charming Retreats You Must Experience!
Experience a Christmas Like No Other in Dubai’s Extravagant Wonderland!
Dubai is a fantastic place to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve, doing everything in style! The city lights up with stunning tree lightings at places like Towers Rotana and Fairmont The Palm. You can even join in the fun at the Santa Run, where Santa Claus takes a sprint around town! Don’t forget to visit the vibrant Christmas markets for some serious holiday shopping. To really get into the festive spirit, head to Dubai Mall, which transforms into an air-conditioned winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink and indoor ski slopes at Ski Dubai.
For a luxurious stay, the Jumeirah Al Naseem offers elegant rooms, easy access to the beach, and top-notch dining and spa experiences. Dubai truly shines as one of the best destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, where holiday cheer meets luxury.
DO READ: Best Hotels in Dubai: Which 11 Over-the-Top Options Will Wow You?
Discover Why Dublin is One of the Top Destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve!
Dublin is one of the fantastic destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, especially if you love a lively Irish pub crawl! Picture yourself warming up on a cold night with black pudding and a few pints in the city’s cozy bars. But it’s not just about the drinks—Dublin is filled with cheerful Christmas markets, beautifully decorated shops along Grafton Street, and festive tree-lighting ceremonies. 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.
ALSO CHECKOUT: 8 Dublin Pubs: Epic Locations You’ll Regret Not Visiting!
Christmas in Inari, Finland You Won’t Forget!
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 your stay, check out Aurora Village, famous for its glass-igloo accommodations. You’ll enjoy panoramic views and cozy cabins, complete with heated windows to keep your view clear. Daily reindeer feedings are also available, making Inari one of the best destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve!
Discover Holiday Spirit of Kennebunkport, Maine!
Looking for unforgettable destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve? Kennebunkport, Maine, is your answer! This charming New England town shines bright during the Christmas Prelude, an 11-day festival from December 1 to 11, filled with holiday cheer. One standout feature is a stunning Christmas tree made entirely of lobster traps, showcasing the town’s coastal spirit. And while you’re there, don’t miss The Clam Shack for lobster rolls that are considered the best in Maine, leaving you dreaming of their savory flavors instead of 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 stay, book a room at the White Barn Inn, where New England luxury meets holiday magic. Enjoy festive offerings like Christmas cookies, eggnog by the fire, and special feasts at the restaurant. Kennebunkport is truly one of the top destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve!
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. Don’t miss out on these unique destinations for Christmas and New Year’s Eve!
CHECKOUT 10 All Inclusive Accommodation Maldives To Transform Your Vacation into a Dream!
HAPPY NEW YEAR AND HAPPY READING!
