It’s fair to say that this year has been an unprecedented and unexpected one for many across the globe. Although we might not be able to do as much traveling as we would perhaps like to this December, that doesn’t mean that you can’t start planning for next year! The festive season is always something to look forward to, whether you are thinking about 2020 or 2021! With that in mind, here are some of the top places to celebrate the holidays and spend time during the Christmas season across the world!
New York City, USA
There is no place quite as magical as New York City at Christmas! From ice skating at Rockefeller Center to shopping on Fifth Avenue to visiting all of the amazing architecture, you will be learning Chrysler building fun facts, the history of the Brooklyn Bridge, and much, much more when you spend Christmas in the wonder of Manhattan! If you are lucky, you will get to experience the classic Manhattan streets covered in pearl white snow.
Salzburg, Austria
Christmas in Salzburg is always wonderful and full of traditions. The centerpiece of the festivities is the historic Christmas market that takes place on Cathedral Square. Walking through the market makes you feel like you have traveled back in time and into a fairytale. The smell of gluhwein, cookies, and Christmas wafts through the air, while the sound and sights of the season are around every corner. This small town truly feels like you are spending Christmas in a wonderland of culture and delicious Austrian food (hello strudels!).
Strasbourg, Germany
Strasbourg provides a similarly quintessential European Christmas experience, with the city’s Christmas markets being one of the oldest in the world. Commonly referred to as the birthplace of many of the world’s most common Christmas celebrations like Christmas trees. Strasbourg, France is known as the “City of Christmas”. This small French city feels like you are back in the 18th century due to its medieval-like architecture, while in Strasbourg for Christmas make sure to drink vin chaud, aka hot wine to keep you warm and happy!
Quebec City, Canada
In North America, Quebec City is a place that offers a stunning array of Christmas lights and decorations in public spaces. Every year the city turns into a festive winter wonderland that evokes all of the magical qualities of the season, with plenty of markets and shops to visit. This French neighbor to the north offers a beautiful blend of European Christmas market magic, and over the top American Christmas traditions blended together, the best part is it’s pretty easy to reach from anywhere in the US (Be aware: Covid restrictions are still in place at this time).
Bondi Beach, Australia
Of course, if you are looking for a way to escape the cold for Christmas, then Australia’s Bondi Beach is the place to be any time of the year! In the heat of their summer, crowds traditionally flock to Bondi Beach in festive fancy dress to celebrate Christmas in a way that only Australia can, shrimp on the barbie included! A Christmas bucket list item for me. is to BBQ in the summer on Bondi Beach. What an experience it would be to celebrate Christmas in the summer!
Christmas Around The World
No matter what destination you are in there is bound to be some amazing Christmas or holiday traditions. Whether you stay home or travel, Christmas is always a great time as long as you are in the company of friends and family who you love. If you want next year to be even more special, a holiday getaway could be the perfect gift and these locations could bring some extra light and celebration to your holiday season. Christmas around the world is celebrated in unique ways and is a great time of the year to experience other cultures and traditions.
Want to know how to celebrate the Holidays in Orlando, Florida? Check out my guide to Christmas and the holiday season in Orlando!
