Best Cities To Be In For Christmas

The holiday season is a magical time of year, and there’s no better way to experience its enchantment than by visiting cities that truly embrace the Christmas spirit. From twinkling lights to festive markets, these cities offer unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of the season. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best cities to be in for Christmas, each offering its unique charm and holiday traditions.

1. New York City, USA

New York City is synonymous with Christmas magic. The Big Apple transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a plethora of festive activities and sights.

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: A must-see, the iconic tree is adorned with thousands of lights and topped with a stunning Swarovski star.
• Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center: Glide on the ice beneath the towering tree, surrounded by the city’s skyscrapers.
• Holiday Window Displays: Stroll down Fifth Avenue to admire the elaborate and creative window displays at department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue.
• Radio City Christmas Spectacular: Enjoy the world-famous Rockettes in a dazzling show filled with music, dance, and holiday cheer.
• Christmas Markets: Visit the Union Square Holiday Market and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market for unique gifts and festive treats.

2. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a city that exudes elegance and charm, especially during the Christmas season. Its historic architecture and rich cultural heritage make it a perfect holiday destination.

• Vienna Christmas Markets: The city is home to some of the most beautiful Christmas markets, including the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz and the market at Schönbrunn Palace.
• Advent Concerts: Experience the magic of classical music with concerts held in stunning venues like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Vienna State Opera.
• Traditional Viennese Cuisine: Warm up with a cup of mulled wine and indulge in traditional treats like Sachertorte and apple strudel.
• Ice Skating at Rathausplatz: Enjoy skating in front of the beautifully illuminated City Hall.
• Christmas Lights: Wander through the streets of Vienna, adorned with sparkling lights and festive decorations.

3. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a fairy-tale city that becomes even more enchanting during the Christmas season. Its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets provide a picturesque backdrop for holiday festivities.

• Old Town Square Christmas Market: The heart of Prague’s Christmas celebrations, featuring a towering Christmas tree and stalls selling handcrafted gifts and delicious food.
• Charles Bridge: Take a stroll across this historic bridge, beautifully lit and offering stunning views of the city.
• Prague Castle: Visit the castle for breathtaking views of the city and enjoy the festive atmosphere of its Christmas market.
• Traditional Czech Cuisine: Savor hearty dishes like roasted ham and trdelník, a sweet pastry cooked over an open flame.
• Midnight Mass at St. Vitus Cathedral: Experience the solemn beauty of a Christmas Eve mass in this magnificent Gothic cathedral.

4. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City offers a unique blend of European charm and North American hospitality, making it a delightful destination for Christmas.

• Old Quebec: The historic district is transformed into a winter wonderland, with cobblestone streets and charming buildings adorned with lights and decorations.
• German Christmas Market: Held in the heart of Old Quebec, this market offers a taste of European Christmas traditions with its wooden stalls and festive atmosphere.
• Tobogganing at Terrasse Dufferin: Enjoy a thrilling ride down one of the oldest wooden toboggan slides in the world.
• Winter Carnival: Although it takes place in January, the carnival spirit is palpable in the city during the holiday season.
• Ice Hotel: For a truly unique experience, visit the Hôtel de Glace, a stunning ice hotel located just outside the city.

5. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo offers a unique and vibrant take on Christmas, blending traditional Japanese culture with Western holiday traditions.

• Illuminations: Tokyo is famous for its spectacular light displays, with popular spots including Shibuya, Roppongi Hills, and Tokyo Midtown.
• Christmas Shopping: Explore the bustling shopping districts of Shinjuku and Ginza for holiday gifts and festive decorations.
• Tokyo Disneyland: Experience the magic of Christmas at Tokyo Disneyland, with special parades, shows, and seasonal decorations.
• Christmas Eve Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Japanese Christmas meal, which often includes fried chicken and a Christmas cake.
• New Year’s Celebrations: While Christmas is celebrated, New Year’s is a major holiday in Japan, with beautiful traditions and festivities.

6. Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is home to one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world, making it a quintessential destination for holiday enthusiasts.

• Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt: Held in the city’s main square, this market features over 180 stalls selling handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and delicious treats.
• Nuremberg Sausages and Glühwein: Savor the city’s famous sausages and warm up with a cup of mulled wine.
• Christmas Museum: Learn about the history of Christmas traditions at the German Christmas Museum.
• Medieval Architecture: Explore the city’s well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Nuremberg Castle and St. Lorenz Church.
• Children’s Christmas Market: A special market designed for children, offering rides, games, and activities.

7. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik offers a unique and magical Christmas experience, with its stunning natural landscapes and rich folklore.

• Northern Lights: Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights dancing across the Icelandic sky.
• Yule Lads: Discover the Icelandic tradition of the Yule Lads, mischievous characters who visit children during the 13 days leading up to Christmas.
• Christmas Markets: Visit the city’s charming Christmas markets for handmade crafts and local delicacies.
• Geothermal Pools: Relax in one of Reykjavik’s famous geothermal pools, such as the Blue Lagoon, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes.
• New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Experience one of the most spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations, with fireworks lighting up the sky across the city.

8. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and tradition, offering a magical setting for Christmas celebrations.

• Edinburgh Christmas Market: Located in the heart of the city, this market offers a wide range of gifts, food, and festive entertainment.
• Hogmanay: Join in the world-famous New Year’s Eve celebrations, featuring a torchlight procession, street parties, and fireworks.
• Edinburgh Castle: Visit the iconic castle, beautifully illuminated during the holiday season.
• St. Giles’ Cathedral: Attend a Christmas service or concert in this historic and stunning cathedral.
• Ice Skating: Enjoy skating in the picturesque setting of St. Andrew Square.

9. Strasbourg, France

Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg offers a quintessential European Christmas experience with its charming half-timbered houses and festive markets.

• Strasbourg Christmas Market: One of the oldest in Europe, this market features hundreds of stalls selling crafts, food, and decorations.
• Cathedral of Notre-Dame: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the cathedral, beautifully lit during the holiday season.
• Alsatian Cuisine: Indulge in local specialties like tarte flambée and spiced wine.
• Christmas Lights: Wander through the city’s streets, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations.
• Cultural Events: Enjoy concerts, exhibitions, and performances celebrating the holiday season.

10. Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, located in the heart of Lapland, is the official hometown of Santa Claus and offers a truly magical Christmas experience.

• Santa Claus Village: Visit Santa Claus in his village, where you can meet the man himself and send postcards from the Santa Claus Post Office.
• Reindeer Sleigh Rides: Experience the thrill of a reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy Finnish wilderness.
• Northern Lights: Witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, a natural wonder that adds to the magic of the season.
• Snowmobiling and Husky Safaris: Explore the stunning landscapes of Lapland on a snowmobile or husky sled.
• Arctic Circle: Cross the Arctic Circle and receive a certificate to commemorate the experience.

Each of these cities offers a unique and unforgettable Christmas experience, filled with festive traditions, stunning decorations, and joyful celebrations. Whether you’re seeking the hustle and bustle of a big city or the charm of a quaint European town, these destinations are sure to fill your holiday season with magic and wonder.