Best Weekend Trips For Christmas

The holiday season is a magical time of year, and what better way to celebrate than by embarking on a weekend getaway? Whether you’re looking to experience a winter wonderland, indulge in festive activities, or simply relax and enjoy the holiday spirit, there are countless destinations perfect for a Christmas weekend trip. Here are some of the best weekend trips for Christmas that will leave you with cherished memories.

1. New York City, New York

New York City is a quintessential Christmas destination, offering a dazzling array of holiday attractions and activities. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with festive decorations and events that capture the magic of the season.

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: Witness the iconic Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, adorned with thousands of lights and a stunning Swarovski star.
• Ice Skating: Glide across the ice at the Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park skating rinks.
• Holiday Markets: Explore the Union Square Holiday Market and the Columbus Circle Holiday Market for unique gifts and festive treats.
• Broadway Shows: Catch a holiday-themed Broadway show, such as “The Nutcracker” or “A Christmas Carol.”

2. Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City offers a European-style Christmas experience without leaving North America. The city’s cobblestone streets and historic architecture provide a charming backdrop for holiday festivities.

• Old Quebec: Stroll through the beautifully decorated streets of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• German Christmas Market: Visit the German Christmas Market for traditional crafts, food, and mulled wine.
• Tobogganing: Enjoy a thrilling toboggan ride on the Dufferin Terrace.
• Winter Carnival: Experience the Quebec Winter Carnival, featuring parades, ice sculptures, and outdoor activities.

3. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is renowned for its elegant Christmas markets and classical music concerts, making it an ideal destination for a festive weekend getaway.

• Christkindlmarkt: Explore the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, one of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe.
• Concerts: Attend a classical concert at the Vienna State Opera or the Musikverein.
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral: Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral for a Christmas Eve mass or a holiday concert.
• Sacher Torte: Indulge in a slice of the famous Sacher Torte at Café Sacher.

4. Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg is home to one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world, offering a traditional German Christmas experience.

• Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt: Wander through the stalls of the Christkindlesmarkt, offering handmade ornaments, toys, and delicious gingerbread.
• Nuremberg Castle: Explore the historic Nuremberg Castle, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Toy Museum: Visit the Toy Museum to see a collection of toys from different eras.
• Bratwurst and Glühwein: Savor traditional bratwurst and warm up with a cup of Glühwein (mulled wine).

5. Lapland, Finland

For a truly magical Christmas experience, head to Lapland, the home of Santa Claus. This winter wonderland offers a range of activities for all ages.

• Santa Claus Village: Meet Santa Claus and his reindeer at the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.
• Northern Lights: Witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon visible in Lapland.
• Husky Sledding: Experience the thrill of husky sledding through snowy landscapes.
• Igloo Hotels: Stay in a glass igloo hotel and enjoy the beauty of the Arctic sky from the comfort of your bed.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s fairy-tale architecture and festive atmosphere make it a perfect destination for a Christmas weekend trip.

• Old Town Square: Visit the Christmas market in Old Town Square, featuring a large Christmas tree and a nativity scene.
• Charles Bridge: Take a stroll across the Charles Bridge, beautifully illuminated during the holiday season.
• Prague Castle: Explore Prague Castle and attend a Christmas concert at St. Vitus Cathedral.
• Trdelník: Try a traditional trdelník, a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and cinnamon.

7. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh offers a unique blend of history, culture, and festive cheer, making it an ideal destination for a Christmas getaway.

• Edinburgh Christmas Market: Explore the Christmas market in East Princes Street Gardens, offering crafts, food, and an ice rink.
• Edinburgh Castle: Visit Edinburgh Castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
• Hogmanay: Experience Hogmanay, Scotland’s famous New Year’s celebration, with torchlight processions and fireworks.
• Whisky Tasting: Warm up with a whisky tasting tour at one of Edinburgh’s many distilleries.

8. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a picturesque city that comes alive during the Christmas season, with its medieval architecture and festive markets.

• Bruges Christmas Market: Discover the Christmas market in the historic city center, offering Belgian chocolates, waffles, and mulled wine.
• Canal Cruise: Take a romantic canal cruise to see the city’s illuminated buildings and bridges.
• Belfry of Bruges: Climb the Belfry of Bruges for a panoramic view of the city.
• Choco-Story Museum: Visit the Choco-Story Museum to learn about the history of chocolate and enjoy tastings.

9. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik offers a unique Christmas experience, with its stunning natural landscapes and festive traditions.

• Yule Lads: Learn about Iceland’s 13 mischievous Yule Lads, who visit children during the holiday season.
• Blue Lagoon: Relax in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes.
• Northern Lights: Go on a Northern Lights tour to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon.
• Christmas Buffet: Enjoy a traditional Icelandic Christmas buffet, featuring dishes like smoked lamb and fermented shark.

10. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a charming city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a cozy and festive Christmas experience.

• Biltmore Estate: Visit the Biltmore Estate, beautifully decorated for the holiday season with thousands of lights and ornaments.
• Downtown Asheville: Explore the vibrant downtown area, featuring holiday markets, local shops, and festive events.
• Winter Lights: Experience the Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum, a dazzling display of lights and holiday decorations.
• Craft Breweries: Sample seasonal brews at one of Asheville’s many craft breweries.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking a traditional Christmas market, a snowy adventure, or a cozy retreat, these destinations offer something for everyone. Each location provides a unique way to celebrate the holiday season, creating memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, embrace the festive spirit, and embark on a magical weekend trip this Christmas.