Where to go for Christmas

Book your next holiday for a Christmas Break!

After working long hours or just looking for a lavish break, I think its time for great need for a Christmas break! Therefore, we have selected the best cities for a luxurious Christmas holiday, where you can enjoy the Christmas atmosphere looking at the magical lights, indulging on delicious food, staying at luxury hotels. Finally, don’t miss out on any of the hot spots, so follow our guide so you don’t miss any Christmas markets, Christmas lights or Christmas activities. 

Lets get into it! Here are the top cities to visit at Christmas:

London

Stunning evening view of Regent Street in London, adorned with festive angel lights and iconic red double-decker bus.

Experience the magic in London at Christmas time. Through the magical streets filled with festive charm, beautiful lights, an abundance of seasonal events, along with visiting tourist attractions. The mix of modern festivals and old-age traditions offers something for everyone, from families to solo travellers which makes a perfect Christmas break. 

Where we recommend staying:

First option is staying at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. This luxury boutique hotel is at a prime location only minutes away from Hyde park, Harrods and Piccadilly. In addition, the hotel is also equipped with indoor pool, gym, full spa service and 3 restaurants. 

Our second recommendation is Claridge’s, Maybourne Hotel Collection. Conversely, this is a luxury family-friendly hotel where you will be staying in the heart of London. Because of the bustling city London is, you will always have something different to do everyday. You’re also minutes away from Oxford Street, Regent Street, Selfridges and off course many more hot spots. Similarly, this hotel is also equipped with 2 restaurants, 24 hour gym, indoor pool and full service spa

New York City

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No one does Christmas like New York. The city that never sleeps, with the bustling lights and those hot dogs from those stands. If you want to feel Christmas and have that Christmas spirit all around New York does it perfectly. New York is a magical place around the winter holidays full of festive energy, iconic decorations and the main attractions. Along with all the holidays lights, shopping markets or ice skating there is something in it for everyone. 

Where we recommend staying:

It goes without a doubt that one of the best hotels to stay in is The Plaza – A Fairmont Managed Hotel, a luxury hotel in Manhattan. The hotel is located in a prime spot, walking distance away from all the hot spots like Time Square, Rockefeller, Broadway, 5th Avenue and more. Lets not forget that the interior of the hotel has a luxury historical style that has some blend of modern to it with an addition to 2 restaurants. 

Another great option is Hard Rock Hotel New York, a luxury hotel a minute away from Time Square. In comparison to The Plaza this hotel is only a few minutes away from the tourist attractions such as, 5th Avenue, Rockefeller and so on. On the contrary while this hotel only has 1 restaurant guest love central hotel for sightseeing. 

Paris

A beautifully lit street in Paris, France during the holiday season with festive lights and bustling traffic.

Embrace the holiday season in Paris, often describes as one of the most enchanting ways to enjoy the Christmas holidays. Along with strolling on the glittering streets, enjoy the unique gift shopping or the culinary and cultural wonders. Have a luxury and unforgettable holiday experience at Paris during Christmas time. 

Where we recommend staying:

Our first recommendation of place to stay is Hôtel de Crillon A Rosewood Hotel. Staying at a family-friendly palace located near Champs-Élysées, this luxury hotel had a $200 million transformation from museum to a private mansion with a streamline of elegance. Again, this hotel is in a prime spot only minutes away from tourist attractions like Champs-Élysées, Place Vendôme and Palais Garnier. Can’t forget the 4 restaurants included in this hotel. 

Have a magical experience staying at the luxury palace that is the Four Seasons Hotel George V. In the heart of Paris this hotel offers a luxurious retreat with an indoor pool and 4 restaurants. Similarly, this hotel shares the same tourist attractions however you will see slightly more on this one and its less walking to the tourist attractions. Oh yeah, you also get a view of the Eiffel Tower from selected rooms.

Dresden

dresden, christmas market, city

First and oldest Christmas in the world sits in the historic city Dresden. The market stalls have a unique style of wooden decorations and considered to be Europe’s capital Christmas. Because of its iconic Christmas markets, holidays events and rich history and culture which makes the city magical and brings that Christmas Spirit back to life. 

Where we recommend staying:

Feel the Christmas energy by staying at Steignenberger Hotel de Saxe where you will be minutes away from Christmas markets. Not far from all the hot spots, you can enjoy your Christmas experience at the hotel if you would like. Equipped with 2 restaurants, gym, bar and also soundproof rooms. With Christmas views of the city outside your window taking the full advantage of having a Christmas break. 

Another great option is staying at Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski Dresden if you are in desire for a Christmas break. The hotel provides an art-gallery on-site along with a shopping centre on-site and if you are seeking for something more relaxing they have a spa. If your going to stay at this hotel you won’t be missing out on the tourist attractions like Dresden Castle, Green Vault, Theatre square and many more. 

Prague

Illuminated Prague Castle and Vltava River at night in winter. Capturing historic beauty.
Some cities exude such an enchanting charm during Christmas that it feels as though they were crafted specifically to celebrate this holiday season. Prague, where magnificent medieval and baroque buildings are adorned with twinkling lights, festive market stalls, and, for the perfect wintry scenes, a dusting of snow. Enjoy the Christmas markets where you will see old fashion wooden stalls, live music and that Christmas break smell. 
 
Where we recommend staying:
 
Don’t miss a thing and stay at a luxury city centre hotel like The Julius. Enjoy the walks of the neighbourhood in Prague to visit tourist attractions such as Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, Powder Tower and many more. Beside from the fact that the hotel is in a great spot, it has also been refurbished in 2022, with a great gym and an option of having breakfast. 
 
Alternatively, you could stay at the luxury BoHo Hotel which is also in the city centre. A boutique hotel with a modern, chic design and personalized atmosphere. It is ideal for travellers looking for a cozy, intimate setting with high-end touches. Unlike The Julius this hotel comes with a full-service spa and a pool. 
 
Similarly, both of these hotels are good for Christmas Markets however if you are more into exploring then I will tend to lean more towards BoHo Hotel. And if you are looking for a slightly less intimate setting I would go for The Julius. But both are great options. 

Vienna

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Christmas Celebrations are historical and big. With the Christmassy appearance there is also a lot of culture in the country such as performances from the choirs, plays in theatres and many more. Visit the snow covered tree, indulge on some delicious treats and hot drinks whilst taking in the spectacular lights of Vienna. For a well deserved Christmas breaks take a trip down to Vienna where you won’t be disappointed. 

Where we recommend staying: 

First option is staying at the luxury Park Hyatt Vienna which is relatively close to one of the best Christmas markets in Vienna, Rathausplatz. In fact, because this hotel is in such a good location you will be able to see other Christmas lights such as Stephansplatz, Kärntnerstrasse, The Garden of Chandelier and more at a short walk of 10 minutes. Despite the fact of the good location, this hotel also has a bar, gym, pool and a full service spa if you ever want to wine down. 

Second option is staying at the luxury Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel where this hotel is connected to the railway/underground station and quick nice walk to Sigmund Freud Museum. Although the other hotel was closer in minutes by food to the tourist attractions, you can still visit these spots by foot and see more of the city. You are going to be closer to Stephansplatz and Kärntnerstrasse and slightly further from Rathausplatz. Similarly, these hotels share the same amenities however this one does have a restaurant. Tempting right?

Altogether both these hotels are great option staying in the city centre, won’t be missing a thing and you will be getting that full luxury travel experience from the moment you step into the hotel. 

Berlin

Free stock photo of alexanderplatz, architecture, berlin

Next on the list is Berlin, where this city has a very different way of showing their Christmas love, if your looking for a unique Christmas break Berlin is the choice for you. You will get to see a bit of everything at this Christmas market from mulled wine and food to popular markets where you will be able to see blacksmiths, glassblowers and potter. There will be something in it for everyone as well as being a great choice for your first European Christmas market. 

Where we recommend staying. 

Staying at the Hilton Berlin Hotel, is the perfect location with only a few minute walk from Gendarmenmarkt which is considered to be the best Christmas market in the city. Because this hotel is in the heart of Berlin you wont miss a thing. The hotel comes with 2 restaurants, art-gallery and spa service with hot stone massage. You’ll find all you need for a fun family Christmas break. 

Another option is The Westin Grand Berlin, its a great option for those of who love shopping as this hotel is in the shopping district. If your looking to shop or just wanting to explore we recommend checking out Friedrichstrasse and Galeries Lafayette. And for something a bit more historical Komische Oper Berlin and Historiale Berlin Museum are also great options. This luxury hotel is stunning equipped with a restaurant, full service spa, gym and many more. 

Lapland

Sunset over a snowy landscape in Lapland, perfect for outdoor winter adventures.

Off course we had to add the magic of Santa Clauses home on here. Words are indescribable for how magnificent this place. Perfect for family, friends and solo travellers. The stunning landscapes takes you out of reality and there unique culture make you feel like your on a Christmas break. There is so much to capture that everyday will be different and everyday will be enjoyable. 

Where we recommend staying:

Santa Claus Holiday Village is a must stay if you want that Christmas vibe everywhere you turn. The whole scenry is magical that it makes you want to stay there. 10 minutes in the car and you will be able to visit one of the largest markets in Northern Finland Rovaniemi Christmas Market. If you select this hotel you will be staying at a mountain aparthotel with 2 restaurants and a spectacular view. 

Retreat to the tranquil charm of Northern Lights Ranch, where luxury blends seamlessly with natural beauty. Relax in the soothing sauna or spa tub, curl up with a book from the library, and savor delectable cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing and ice skating, while staying connected with free WiFi and taking advantage of complimentary parking.

 

Edinburgh

Christmas in Edinburgh

One of the most special things about spending the Christmas Holiday in Edinburgh is that it allows family and friends come together and enjoy the festive season. Visit the city and notice the majestic lights surrounding the historical buildings, their rich culture and visit the Christmas Market which has been named the “most beautiful” in Europe. Watch how the whole town comes to life and Christmas spirit comes alive in the charming streets of Edinburgh perfect for a Christmas Break.

Where we recommend staying:

First recommendation is The Balmoral Hotel. This luxury hotel is in the city centre so you will be able to enjoy the walks on the street of Edinburgh. It’s also a walkable distance from the Christmas Markets like, Stockbridge and Grassmarket. Included with this hotel is 3 restaurants, indoor pool, gym and spa if you ever need to wind down. With so much things to do you won’t be bored staying at this hotel.

Second option is InterContinental Edinburgh The George, an IHG Hotel. Similarly, it is also in the city centre and a five star hotel. However, you will be closer to some Christmas Markets like Stockbridge but further from Grassmarket. But overall they are both still in a prime location. The hotel comes with a fitness centre and the guests love how friendly the staff are.  

 

Strasbourg

alsace, strasbourg, petite france

Strasbourg is considered to be the “Capital of Christmas” because their Christmas markets are the oldest in France and one of the oldest in Europe. The whole city is illuminated with the most magical Christmas decorations and their eye catching markets making it one of the most captivating Christmas destinations in the world. This city is practically known for having a Christmas Break. 

Where we recommend staying:

We would recommend staying at Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel&Spa, Autograph Collection because this hotel is in the city centre and your not far from the Christmas Markets. You won’t miss anything from staying at this hotel creating you a memorable trip. Included in the hotel is full-service spa, gym, breakfast availability and a restaurant. 

Our next recommendation is a hotel that doesn’t just specialise in spas but are also closer to Christmas Markets and Christmas in Alsace. Hôtel & Spa RÉGENT PETITE FRANCE is a luxury hotel based in the heart of Strasbourg. It will be impossible for you to miss something in Strasbourg. Staying at this hotel you will go a day with our boredom and has the true meaning behind a Christmas Break.  

 

Leavenworth

Charming Bavarian-style building in Leavenworth illuminated with festive lights at night.

Oh my, this place is truly magical. From the lights, to the snow, to the markets you will definitely get in the festive joy visiting this city. The city has embedded this unusual European setting, some argue that Leavenworth is the best city to visit at Christmas time in the US. Thankfully, they keep their lights up for 3 months from Thanksgiving up until the last day in February, so if you want to miss the madness either go before December or after but you may miss out on the Christmas Markets. Everyday will be different with plenty of activities (kids friendly as well) if your from US, Europe or Asia its a must visit. A perfect city for a Christmas Break.

Where we recommend staying:

Enjoy a free breakfast buffet staying at Der Ritterhof Inn. In a location surrounded by snow and a magical walk to the lights.  This hotel is very simple there is a pool which is opened from June to September. A 10 minute drive from Ski Hill, you can also do hiking and bicycles for rent. 

Hotel Pension Anna is within steps from the city centre. The hotel is located in the downtown of Leavenworth. Included in this hotel is a warm daily breakfast. Another simple hotel but in a great location minutes away from the Christmas lights and Ski Hill. 

Wroclaw

Crowded European city square illuminated with festive holiday lights during a snowy winter night.

If you looking for a bit more a quiet cozy setting, then I recommend taking a trip to Wroclaw.  It is affordable and you don’t need to worry about getting lost because it is relatively small. The streets are like a fairy-tail themed with stunning scenery escaping the reality. The Christmas Market is located in the heart of the old town so you will able to explore more than the Christmas Markets if you wished.

Where we recommend staying:

Stay at the luxury Radisson Blu Hotel where you will be connected to the city centre. You will be able to the natural beauty of the city visiting all the hot spots in a distance where you can walk. The hotel comes with a full-service spa, gym, bar, restaurant and the option for breakfast. An ideal hotel for a Christmas Break. 

Another great option is Wyndham Wroclaw Old Town similar to the first one it is located in the city centre however it doesn’t have a spa however it does have all the other amenities like gym, restaurant, bar and breakfast option. If you love shopping you will be connected to a shopping centre, you will also be able to visit the tourist attractions like, Wroclaw Town Hall, St. Mary Magdalene Church and many more.

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