Dreamer

As the year draws to a close and the festive season unfolds, what better way to bid adieu to the old and welcome the new than by exploring the magic of Christmas in diverse corners of the world? From traditional European markets to exotic tropical escapes, here’s a curated list of ten enchanting Christmas destinations that promise to make your holiday season memorable.

• Strasbourg, France – The Capital of Christmas: Nestled in the heart of Alsace, Strasbourg kicks off our global journey as the “Capital of Christmas.” With its historic charm, the Strasbourg Cathedral, and the renowned Christkindelsmärik, this city transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the quintessential spirit of Christmas.

• Quebec City, Canada – A French-Canadian Christmas Retreat: Journey across the Atlantic to North America and experience the magic of Christmas in Quebec City. The cobblestone streets of Old Town, adorned with twinkling lights, set the stage for a charming French-Canadian celebration. Explore the German Christmas market, indulge in maple treats, and witness the city’s unique blend of European and North American holiday traditions.

• Reykjavik, Iceland – Northern Lights and Yuletide Delights: Head north to Reykjavik, where Christmas takes on a magical twist under the Northern Lights. Iceland’s capital boasts a festive Christmas Village, geothermal pools to warm up in, and an opportunity to experience unique Icelandic holiday traditions. It’s a Christmas celebration like no other, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes and the allure of the aurora borealis.

• Cologne, Germany – German Gem of Christmas Markets: Germany continues to beckon with Cologne, offering a quintessential German Christmas market experience. The Cologne Cathedral provides a majestic backdrop to seven festive markets, where the air is filled with the aroma of mulled wine, roasted nuts, and the joyous sounds of carolers.

• Stockholm, Sweden – Scandi-Chic Christmas by the Water: Venture to Stockholm for a Scandinavian Christmas surrounded by the beauty of the water. Gamla Stan’s cobbled streets and Skansen’s open-air museum create a winter wonderland, and the Swedish Christmas market captures the essence of this Nordic celebration.

• Prague, Czech Republic – Bohemian Elegance in a Christmas Setting: The picturesque city of Prague enchants with its Baroque and Gothic architecture adorned in festive lights. Explore the Old Town Square’s Christmas market, sip on honey wine, and witness the magic of Czech Christmas against the backdrop of Prague Castle.

• Edinburgh, Scotland – Scottish Splendor Amidst Castle Views: Cross the border to Edinburgh for a Scottish Christmas spectacle. The Royal Mile and Princes Street Gardens transform into a festive haven with bagpipes, mulled wine, and a Christmas market boasting a stunning view of the Edinburgh Castle.

• Barcelona, Spain – Sunny Mediterranean Christmas: For a sunnier celebration, head to Barcelona and experience a Mediterranean take on Christmas. Street decorations, festive markets, and unique Catalonian traditions, including the Caga Tió, add a lively and sunny touch to the holiday season.

• New York City, USA – The Big Apple’s Bright Christmas Lights: Take a transatlantic journey to New York City, where the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Fifth Avenue displays, and the festive atmosphere in Times Square make for a dazzling holiday experience. Ice skating in Central Park and the holiday windows along Fifth Avenue are must-see attractions.

• Sydney, Australia – Christmas Down Under by the Shore: Conclude our global Christmas expedition in Sydney, where the holiday season is celebrated Down Under. Enjoy beach barbecues, outdoor festivities, and the iconic Carols by Candlelight at the Sydney Opera House. Bondi Beach becomes a unique backdrop for Christmas cheer, blending sun, sea, and Santa.

From the festive streets of Europe to the sunny shores of Australia, these ten Christmas destinations offer a kaleidoscope of traditions, landscapes, and celebrations. Whether you choose to embrace the snow in the Northern Hemisphere or revel in the sun in the Southern Hemisphere, each destination on this list promises a unique and enchanting Christmas experience to wrap up the decade in style.

Until next time, have #adreamerlife!

Cristiana Apreutese