Check Out These 5 Places to Travel This Christmas!
If you looking for somewhere to visit this Christmas, you’re in the right place! For the last 14 years, my mom and I have been celebrating Christmas around the world. From our first trip to Paris to our most recent trip to Brussels, we’ve explored some of the best Christmas destinations around the world…
Each destination we’ve visited brought its own unique blend of charm, tradition, and holiday spirit that made every trip unforgettable.
However, the 3 main things that led me to select these 5 locations were:
- The enchanting winter wonderland feel (all of these places were COLD)
- The stunning festive decor and lights that transform each city
- The abundance of Christmasy things to do (i. shows, tours, and events)
At this stage in life, it’s not about the gifts—it’s about the experiences. Traveling during the holidays gives my mother and I memories that last far longer than anything we could buy in a store.
Here are my top 5 suggestions for places to travel this Christmas:
1. Brussels, Belgium: A Medieval Christmas
My mom and I kicked off our 2023 Christmas adventures in Brussels, Belgium, and it did not disappoint! Brussels has some of the cutest Christmas markets, but nearby Bruges and Ghent add their own charm. Both regions give more of the classic European Christmas Market feel. It’s a mix of medievel fairy tale vibes and laid-back holiday cheer, with plenty of beer and chocolate to go around.
Sample Brussels Budget (per person, 5 days):
- Flights: $500 – $800 (from the US)
- Accommodation: $100 – $150/night for a mid-range hotel
- Food & Drinks: $50 – $70/day
- Total: $1,200 – $1,500
2. Dublin, Ireland: Cozy Christmas Vibes
If you want festive, Dublin is where it’s at! The city gets 5/5 for how it transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights and laid-back pubs. It was such a vibe warming up with hot whiskey and Irish coffee while wandering the festive streets.
Just remember, the city shuts down almost completely on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so plan to relax and enjoy some downtime…
Sample Dublin Budget (per person, 4 days):
- Flights: $400 – $700 (from the US)
- Accommodation: $120 – $180/night for a 3-star hotel
- Food & Drinks: $60 – $80/day (those Irish coffees add up!)
- Total: $1,200 – $1,400
3. New York City, USA: The Ultimate Christmas Experience
Full Transparency, New York City‘s Christmas atmosphere is a large part of the reason I love Christmas. It is unmatched! The city is lit up with festive energy, and every corner feels like a movie scene. My mom and I hit up Radio City for the Rockettes and an Alvin Ailey show every year—NYC is our go-to for holiday magic. We always make time to go and just walk the city either before or after our international excursion.
Sample NYC Budget (per person, 3 days):
- Flights: $100 – $300 (domestic, depending on location)
- Accommodation: $200 – $350/night for a mid-range hotel in Manhattan
- Food & Drinks: $70 – $100/day (especially with holiday treats)
- Total: $1,000 – $1,500
4. Prague, Czech Republic: Budget-Friendly Christmas
Prague was one of the most affordable European destinations we’ve visited for Christmas. The markets are magical, the food is amazing, and you don’t have to spend a fortune. If you’re looking for a Christmas market experience without breaking the bank, Prague is definitely the top choice
Sample Prague Budget (per person, 4 days):
- Flights: $500 – $900 (from the US)
- Accommodation: $70 – $120/night (mid-range hotel)
- Food & Drinks: $40 – $60/day
- Total: $900 – $1,200
5. Zurich, Switzerland: A Winter Wonderland
Zurich during Christmas is another charming experience defined by the festive energy of European Christmas Markets! The whole city is like a holiday dream. Seriously! Every thing is lit up and there are Christmas markets on every corner—just imagine strolling through streets lined with twinkling lights, sipping hot cocoa or Hot Wine, and sampling all sorts of festive treats. They even have markets inside train stations!
There is also plenty to do! The city, for the most part, stays open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. If you’re up for an adventure, take a day trip to the Swiss Alps offers stunning snowy vistas and cozy chalets.
Sample Zurich Budget (per person, 5 days):
- Flights: $600 – $1,000 (from the US)
- Accommodation: $150 – $250/night for a mid-range hotel
- Food & Drinks: $60 – $80/day
- Total: $1,500 – $2,000
These destinations gave us holiday experiences we’ll never forget. The joy of creating moments—the laughter, the adventures, the new cultures—are exactly what the Christmas Spirit is about.
So if you’re thinking about skipping the gifts this year and investing in travel, these spots are perfect to start making memories.
AND, if you’ve got any suggestions of places to travel for Christmas next, let us know!!
Until next time, wishing you all a magical holiday season filled with love, joy, and travel!
