Christmas is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by taking a trip to one of the world’s most captivating locations, where people celebrate Christmas in distinctive and unforgettable ways. Christmas is celebrated on December 25 across the world. Whether your vision is of wintry scenery, bustling marketplaces, or balmy tropical getaways, here are ten travel destinations that should be on your Christmas travel list for an unforgettable experience this year.
Let’s look at the best domestic and international snowy Christmas destinations around the world:
Domestic
- Sikkim: The best time to visit Sikkim is in December to enjoy the best of natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the fusion of Buddhism and snow-capped mountains, complete with monasteries, hot springs, and pristine lakes. Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers, is a popular destination for newlyweds in December in Sikkim.
- Dehradun: During the winter, Dehradun becomes a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, with snow-capped peaks as a backdrop. The city provides a magical winter experience, from Robber’s Cave to the historic Forest Research Institute.
- Bagdogra: Bagdogra, tucked away in the Eastern Himalayas, is becoming a popular winter getaway. Discover charming tea gardens and beautiful scenery that evoke a tranquil atmosphere for winter travellers. The 110-foot-tall Stupa, founded by Tibetan Lama Kalu Rinpoche, is the site’s most visited attraction.
- Jammu: Jammu, which has a rich cultural legacy, has transformed into a winter wonderland with vibrant markets, old temples, and snow-covered landscapes. For a classic winter experience, explore the snow-covered meadows of Gulmarg and the frozen charm of Dal Lake.
- Leh: Leh offers a unique winter adventure in this high-altitude desert, complete with snow-covered monasteries and immaculate lakes that captivate hearts. One can experience an immersive journey in the heart of the Himalayas with lively festivals and friendly locals.
International
- Germany: Nuremberg is one of the most conventional and gorgeous locations for Germany’s enchanted Christmas markets. More than 180 stalls with red-and-white cloth roofs can be found at the 16th-century Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt. A wonderful place to spend Christmas!
- Austria: For a once-in-a-lifetime winter adventure, discover the charm of the Austrian Alps, ancient towns, and joyous festivities. There are lots of fantastic reasons to travel to Austria in the winter, such as visiting Christmas markets, going tobogganing, attending music events, and lounging in thermal spas.
- Finland: Lapland, Finland is the ultimate destination for those looking for a winter wonderland straight out of a holiday fairy tale. Rovaniemi, Lapland, Santa Claus’ official hometown, offers a magical Christmas experience. It is jam-packed with fantastic, easy-to-access Christmas and winter activities that the entire family will enjoy.
- France: Strasbourg, France, is famous for having one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets! Strasbourg’s Christmas Market, which dates back to the 1570s, has over 300 stalls selling crafts, decorations, and local treats. The fairy-tale atmosphere is created by the city’s medieval architecture, which is adorned with twinkling lights.
- Netherlands: Indulge in Dutch winter traditions and embrace the enchanting atmosphere of the Netherlands’ canals, Christmas markets, and historic cities decked out in festive lights for a cosy and memorable holiday experience.
