20 Best Places to Travel for Christmas and New Year Celebrations

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Introduction: Why Christmas and New Year Travel is Special

Traveling during Christmas and New Year’s is such a magical winter experience! It’s a chance to see different parts of the world and celebrate in fun, unique ways. Some people like snowy cities with sparkling lights and decorations, while others enjoy sunny beaches or places with cool cultural traditions. Wherever you go, these holidays let you create memories you’ll never forget. And right now, there are some amazing travel deals and packages to make these holiday trips even more affordable, especially for those who want to pack their bags for a winter getaway.

What Makes a Great Christmas Destination?

A great Christmas travel spot has holiday lights, decorations, and traditions that make you feel the spirit of the season. Some travelers want a classic “white Christmas” with snow and cozy fires, while others would rather relax on a warm beach during their time to visit. Each place on this list has something special to make your holiday season unforgettable, including the Christmas spirit!

20 Best Places to Travel for Christmas and New Year Celebrations

Magical Christmas Cities in Europe

1. Copenhagen, Denmark – Copenhagen feels like a winter wonderland, especially with the Christmas lights at Tivoli Gardens, where visitors can enjoy carnival rides, holiday markets, and Danish treats. Cozy up in a warm café and try “gløgg” (a spiced hot drink) and Danish Christmas cookies like “pebernødder” (pepper nuts). The city’s “hygge” atmosphere, which means “coziness” in Danish, makes it feel warm and welcoming.
2. Vienna, Austria – Vienna’s Christmas markets and holiday concerts are full of magic. Rathausplatz is the most famous market, where you can shop for handmade ornaments, enjoy roasted chestnuts, and sip mulled wine. Don’t miss the New Year’s Eve Trail, where the streets fill with music, food, and sparkling decorations. Vienna’s elegant architecture adds to the festive feel, making the city look like a holiday postcard with its lights and decorations.
3. Strasbourg, France – Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s narrow cobblestone streets and medieval buildings are decorated with lights and ornaments, creating a magical winter experience. The markets are filled with gingerbread, spiced wine, and other Alsatian holiday treats, making it a delightful stop on your holiday movie tour. Don’t miss trying “Bredele,” the local holiday cookies, and seeing the giant Christmas tree at Place Kléber.
4. Prague, Czech Republic – Prague’s Old Town Square transforms with holiday lights, wooden stalls, and traditional Czech food like “trdelník” (a cinnamon pastry cooked over an open flame). The holiday markets also offer local crafts, perfect for finding unique souvenirs. Strolling through Prague’s gothic streets feels like stepping into a winter fairytale, especially during every December.
5. Edinburgh, Scotland – Edinburgh’s Hogmanay festival is famous worldwide. The celebration includes a Viking torchlight procession, live music, and a grand New Year’s Eve fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle, making it a memorable way to welcome 2023. Hogmanay traditions include eating a traditional dish called “steak pie” and making “first-foot” visits, where friends bring small gifts to each other’s homes for good luck, making it a wonderful time to visit.

Tropical Beaches for a Warm Christmas

6. Maldives – If you dream of celebrating Christmas on a sunny beach, the Maldives is perfect. Stay in an overwater bungalow, relax on pristine beaches, and enjoy a tropical Christmas feast featuring seafood and fresh fruit. Many resorts offer special holiday dinners and candle-lit beach celebrations, making it a unique holiday experience.
7. Hawaii, USA is a popular travel destination for those seeking a warm escape during the winter months. – Hawaii has a one-of-a-kind holiday vibe with hula performances, the Honolulu City Lights festival, and the annual Waikiki Holiday Parade. The warm weather and beachside celebrations make it a relaxing, tropical holiday, perfect for those who want to pack for a different kind of Christmas. Enjoy Hawaiian-style holiday dishes like “kalua pig” and “poi” (a traditional Hawaiian dish made from taro root).
8. Caribbean Islands like Punta Cana are ideal for those seeking a warm getaway during the holiday season, especially in December 2023. – Each Caribbean island has its way of celebrating, with clear blue waters, palm trees, and island-wide festivities. In Puerto Rico, for example, Christmas is celebrated with roasted pork dishes, “coquito” (a coconut-based holiday drink), and lively parrandas, which are traditional Christmas caroling parties.
9. Bali, Indonesia is a unique travel destination that offers a warm beach experience during the holiday season. Bali combines its rich culture with Christmas cheer by decorating temples and holding holiday markets, making it look a bit different this year. Some resorts host traditional Balinese dance performances alongside Christmas dinners decorated for the holidays. Try dishes like “babi guling” (suckling pig) for a unique tropical twist on holiday dining.
10. Goa, India is a vibrant travel destination known for its festive celebrations during the holiday season. – Goa is known for its beach parties and lively vibe. Christmas Eve is celebrated with midnight masses at beautifully decorated churches, and Christmas Day brings beach fireworks and dance parties. Don’t miss Goan holiday dishes like “bebinca” (a layered coconut dessert) and “sorpotel” (a spicy pork stew).

Popular Christmas Spots in North America

11. New York City, USA – New York has everything for the holidays: the famous tree at Rockefeller Center, ice skating in Central Park, and the iconic Times Square ball drop on New Year’s Eve. The city’s holiday windows and markets add to the festive feel, and you can try seasonal treats like hot chocolate from Max Brenner or holiday cookies from Magnolia Bakery.
12. Quebec City, Canada – Quebec’s cobblestone streets and European-style architecture make it feel like a winter fairytale, especially when decorated for the holidays. The city’s German Christmas Market offers mulled wine, maple treats, and traditional Quebecois foods. Activities like ice skating and horse-drawn carriage rides add to the cozy winter ambiance and holiday cheer.
13. Aspen, Colorado, USA is a perfect destination for skiing and enjoying Christmas festivities, especially around December 25. – Aspen’s luxury lodges and snowy slopes create a classic winter wonderland. Besides skiing, you can enjoy holiday events like tree-lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, and après-ski gatherings with hot chocolate or mulled wine. Aspen is also known for upscale holiday dining in cozy mountain lodges.
14. Vancouver, Canada – Vancouver’s Capilano Suspension Bridge lights up with thousands of holiday lights during the holidays. Enjoy winter festivals, outdoor skating at Robson Square, and day trips to nearby ski slopes. Vancouver’s mix of city and nature makes it an ideal spot for a festive holiday.
15. Orlando, USA – Orlando’s theme parks go all out for Christmas, providing a festive atmosphere filled with holiday cheer. At Disney, you’ll find Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party with special parades and decorations, while Universal Studios offers Grinch-themed celebrations closed on Christmas Eve. The parks are transformed into holiday wonderlands, making it a fantastic travel destination for families during the Christmas season.

Winter Sale: Sizzling Offers! by Desmo Travel – Get $20 Off Your Booking!

Make your holiday travel even more affordable with Desmo Travel’s Winter Sale: Sizzling Offers! This season, we’re giving you $20 off on select bookings to help you enjoy the magic of Christmas and New Year celebrations without overspending. Whether you’re dreaming of snowy European cities, sunny beaches, or cozy U.S. getaways, Desmo Travel has the perfect deal to match your plans.

Offer Highlights:

• $20 Off on Flights and Packages: Apply this discount to your holiday bookings and save on your dream destinations.
• Up to 40% Off on Travel Packages, Cruises, and Group Bookings: Beyond the $20 discount, get exclusive rates on curated packages for destinations around the globe.
• Flexible Dates: Our Winter Sale covers travel throughout the holiday season, so you can plan your trips on dates that suit you best.

Take advantage of these special offers to book your Christmas or New Year’s getaway today. With Desmo Travel, you can make holiday memories that won’t break the bank!

Top Winter Spots in the USA

16. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – Lake Tahoe’s ski resorts, scenic gondola rides, and snow-covered mountains make it perfect for a winter holiday in the Alps. After skiing, cozy up by the fire with hot cocoa, and enjoy holiday lights around the lake.
17. Charleston, South Carolina – Charleston’s historic charm shines during the holidays with beautiful holiday decorations on historic homes. Enjoy holiday tours, Christmas parades, and mild weather that allows for outdoor exploring even in December, making it the perfect time to travel.
18. Nashville, Tennessee – Nashville celebrates with Southern charm. The Gaylord Opryland Resort is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 3 million lights. Nashville’s holiday concerts, especially at the Grand Ole Opry, add a musical touch to the season.
19. Chicago, Illinois transforms into a winter wonderland with its famous Christkindlmarkt during the holiday season. – Chicago’s holiday highlights include the Christkindlmarket, an open-air German-style market offering ornaments, sausages, and spiced wine. The city also has ice skating at Millennium Park and holiday lights along Michigan Avenue, making it perfect for a classic American Christmas experience that includes the Christmas spirit.
20. Aspen, Colorado – Aspen’s snowy mountains and cozy cabins make it a favorite for skiing and holiday relaxation. Besides the ski slopes, visitors can enjoy holiday shopping, festive gatherings, and cozy fireside dining in this winter wonderland.

Current Christmas Travel Deals

In addition to the incredible destinations, there are fantastic travel deals right now to make your holiday travel even more affordable.

1. American Airlines – Round-trip deals like Dallas (DFW) to Orlando (MCO) from $159 for January travel.
2. Delta Air Lines – Special discounts on flights to Europe, with $75 for the first checked bag in Basic Economy.
3. United Airlines offers special holiday flights for those traveling to see festive celebrations in 2023. – Various special offers on both domestic and international flights.
4. Southwest Airlines – Offers a Low Fare Calendar to find the cheapest days to travel.
5. JetBlue Airways offers great options for travel destinations during the holiday season. – Current promotions on select routes.
6. Alaska Airlines – Special offers on flights and vacation packages.
7. Spirit Airlines offers flights to various travel destinations, perfect for holiday travel. – Low fares on numerous routes.
8. Frontier Airlines – Discount Den membership provides exclusive low fares to various travel destinations.
9. Hawaiian Airlines – Special discounts on flights to and from Hawaii.
10. Allegiant Air is offering seasonal flights to various festive destinations for the holiday season in 2023. – Low-cost fares on various travel destinations for your holiday getaway.

Additional Travel Offers:

• Cruise Packages often include unique experiences like dog sledding for a festive twist. MSC Cruises offers a 7-night Mediterranean cruise starting from $584 per person for a December departure, perfect for celebrating yuletide in Naples.
• Travel Tuesday is a great time to find deals for holiday trips, especially to destinations celebrating Christmas in 2023. Mark your calendars for Travel Tuesday (December 3, 2024), when there are special discounts on travel destinations, flights, hotels, and more.

Conclusion

From snowy European towns to sunny beaches, these destinations offer something for everyone to make Christmas and New Year unforgettable. With current travel deals, you can enjoy a memorable holiday without overspending. Embrace the magic of the season, explore new places, and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Q: What are the best places to spend Christmas in 2024?

A: If you’re looking for the best places to spend Christmas in 2024, don’t miss destinations like Prague and Salzburg. These cities are known for their stunning Christmas markets, festive lights, and joyful holiday spirit, especially during the European holiday season. Plus, they both have incredible Christmas trees that really get you in the mood!

Q: What activities can I enjoy during a Christmas vacation in Park City?

A: Park City is fantastic for a Christmas vacation, especially for those looking to enjoy the northern lights in the nearby mountains! You can enjoy skiing, sledding, and even ice skating under twinkling lights. The festive atmosphere really makes it one of the best places to celebrate the Christmas season, where you might see reindeer decorations. And don’t forget about the cozy resort vibes!

Q: Are there any unique Christmas traditions in Prague?

A: Oh, absolutely! In Prague, you can experience a traditional Czech Christmas market that’s filled with unique crafts and delicious food. On Christmas Eve, many people dine on fish and potato salad, and you can enjoy stunning light displays that make the Old Town magical. It’s a wonderful place to celebrate Christmas!

Q: What is the best way to experience holiday travel during Christmas and New Year?

A: To make the most of your holiday travel during Christmas and New Year, plan ahead! Look for all-inclusive packages that cover flights and accommodations, particularly those that include afternoon tea options. It’s also a great idea to check local events for light displays and Christmas markets decorated for the holidays to truly immerse yourself in the holiday cheer!

Q: Where can I find the best Christmas markets in 2024?

A: Some of the best Christmas markets in 2024 can be found in cities like Salzburg and Prague. They’re famous for their cozy atmosphere, delicious treats, and charming stalls. You can sip on some hot chocolate while browsing unique gifts, making it one of the best Christmas vacations you could have!

Q: What are some places to visit in December for holiday lights?

A: December is filled with magical light displays in many cities around the world! Look for places like New York City for the iconic tree at Rockefeller Center, or head to Salzburg to see the twinkling lights in the market squares. These are definitely among the best places for festive lights, especially if you enjoy ice skating at Rockefeller Center!

Q: Can you suggest any awesome cruises for Christmas and New Year celebrations?

A: Absolutely! There are some amazing cruises that offer festive celebrations on board, making them perfect for a yuletide getaway. Look for holiday cruises that stop at destinations with Christmas markets, like those in Europe. You can enjoy Christmas day and New Year’s festivities while sailing, which is a unique way to celebrate the season!

Q: What’s the best way to experience Christmas in the U.S.?

A: If you’re in the U.S., look for cities known for their holiday spirit like New York City and Chicago. These cities have amazing Christmas lights, ice skating rinks, and festive events. Plus, you can explore their local markets to find many Christmas goodies, making it a festive adventure!