This blog post is all about the top places to spend Christmas in 2024.
Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year, and what better way to soak up the festive spirit than by traveling to a destination that truly comes alive during the holidays?
From twinkling lights and snow-dusted streets to bustling Christmas markets and cozy winter traditions, the world is filled with places that make this season feel like pure magic.
Cloudwards ran a study to find out where the world wants to travel this Christmas, as well as popular places to spend Christmas from people in the US (by state).
This guide will take you through some of the most enchanting places to spend Christmas this year, each offering its own unforgettable blend of festive cheer.
So grab a hot drink, get cozy, and let’s dive into your holiday travel inspiration!
This blog post is all about the most popular places to spend Christmas this year.
Reasons to Travel Abroad this Christmas
Let’s be honest—staying home for Christmas can sometimes feel like déjà vu. The same songs on repeat, the same decorations, and the same routine. But what if this year you swapped your cozy slippers for a pair of travel shoes and celebrated Christmas somewhere completely different?
Travelling during the holiday season gives you a chance to see how other cultures celebrate. Imagine swapping a snowy Christmas for a tropical beach in Thailand or sipping mulled wine at a Christmas market in Europe.
Also, travelling at Christmas can be surprisingly stress-free. Sure, airports are busier, but you’ll avoid hosting duties, last-minute gift shopping, and awkward family conversations (you know the ones). Plus, waking up in a stunning new place? Way better than waking up to your neighbour’s flashing reindeer lights.
And let’s not forget the food. Travelling over Christmas means indulging in festive dishes from around the world—think spicy gingerbread in Germany, roast pork in the Philippines, or even a quirky seafood feast in Australia.
So, why not make this Christmas the year you pack a bag and set off? Whether it’s cozying up in a chalet or lounging on a beach, it’s time to swap tradition for adventure. Who knows, it might just become your new favourite holiday tradition.
Below are the best places to spend Christmas this year!
The Most Popular Places to Spend Christmas in 2024
Below are the most popular places to spend Christmas this year, according to research by Cloudwards.
1. London, England
London came out on top in the destinations that travellers want to visit this Christmas. And I can understand why!
After living in London over three Christmases, it was the season that I always looked forward to the most. If you’re looking for places to go for Christmas in England, look no further.
London fully dives into the Christmas spirit with amazing lights over Regent Street, the very popular Winter Wonderland experience and department stores like Harrods and Selfridges going all-out every single year.
It’s one of the best Christmas cities in the world!
To experience a small piece of London Christmas magic, and see why it’s one of the most popular places to spend Christmas, you can watch my YouTube vlog below of a very Christmassy weekend in the city.
RELATED blog post to read: 10 Things to See and Do in London at Christmas
Why You Should Visit London this Christmas
If there’s one city that knows how to do Christmas right, it’s London. The whole place feels like it’s stepped out of a holiday movie—lights twinkling, carollers singing, and just enough of a chill in the air to make wrapping your hands around a hot drink feel extra special.
Here’s why London should be top of your list of places to spend Christmas:
Christmas Lights
From the iconic displays on Oxford Street and Regent Street to the charming decorations in Covent Garden, the city is glowing.
And don’t miss Carnaby Street—it’s always a bit quirky and over-the-top in the best way possible. Walking through these streets after dark feels like stepping into a fairytale.
Christmas Markets
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is the big one, with rides, food stalls, and more mulled wine than you can handle.
But if you’re after something a little cozier, Southbank’s Christmas market along the Thames has stunning river views and plenty of festive treats.
RELATED blog post to read: 10 Things to See and Do in London at Christmas
Ice Skating
You can’t visit London at Christmas and not try gliding (or let’s be real, wobbling) around an ice rink.
The rink at Somerset House is straight-up magical, set against its grand backdrop, while the Natural History Museum’s rink brings charm and Instagram-worthy moments.
Theatre Scene
From timeless performances like The Nutcracker to heartwarming Christmas plays, catching a show in London during the holidays is an experience in itself.
Or, if you’re into something quirky, check out the festive pantomimes—it’s British humour at its finest.
RELATED blog post to read: Five Things I Miss About Living in London
Christmas Shopping
Lastly, London is perfect for anyone who loves a good shop.
Whether you’re browsing Harrods’ jaw-dropping Christmas department or picking up unique finds in Soho’s indie shops, this city takes gift shopping to the next level.
Festive Hotels to Stay at in London this Christmas
If you’re heading to London this Christmas, you’ll want a hotel that feels just as magical as the city itself.
Here are some fantastic places to spend Christmas, where festive vibes are on full display:
1. Claridge’s
Claridge’s is the definition of Christmas luxury. This iconic hotel in Mayfair transforms into a winter wonderland every year, complete with an extravagant Christmas tree designed by a renowned artist or fashion designer.
The lobby sparkles with festive décor, and the afternoon tea with seasonal treats is chef’s kiss.
2. The Ritz London
Few places feel more festive than The Ritz. Their Christmas decorations are grand, traditional, and full of sparkle, making it the perfect place to indulge in some holiday luxury.
The Ritz Restaurant hosts also incredible festive feasts, and staying here feels like stepping into a classic Christmas movie. Making it one of the best places to spend Christmas.
3. The Savoy
The Savoy knows how to celebrate the season in style. Their holiday displays are so legendary, with themed decorations and a warm, festive atmosphere.
The riverside location also means you’re close to London’s best Christmas markets and theatres.
4. The Ned
For a chic yet festive experience, The Ned in the City of London is a dream. Its historic building is beautifully decked out for the holidays, and their multiple restaurants also serve up seasonal dishes.
The vibe is stylish but cozy, and there’s always live music to set the scene.
5. Covent Garden Hotel
This boutique gem in the heart of Covent Garden offers a cozy, festive retreat. The neighbourhood itself is a Christmas hotspot, with a giant tree, sparkling lights, and festive street performances also right on your doorstep.
The hotel’s charming interiors feel like a warm hug after a day of exploring.
Popular Places to Spend Christmas for Americans
Vienna tops the list of places that Americans want to travel to for Christmas, followed closely by Quebec City.
You can see the results of this research in the map below, but click here to see the full list.
2. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is always a popular tourist destination over the winter period, and most popular for their Christmas market. As well as being one of the best Christmas vacations for couples.
I visited Vienna in late spring, but would love to come back here someday in the winter to see its true magic.
You can get a sense of what Vienna has to offer in my travel YouTube vlog below when we spent a quick 48 hours there:
Why You Should Visit Vienna this Christmas
If there’s one place that feels straight out of a snow globe at Christmas, it’s Vienna. This city oozes old-world charm, and when it’s draped in twinkling lights and festive cheer, it’s like stepping into a holiday fairytale.
So here’s why Vienna is one of the best places to spend Christmas in Europe:
Christmas Markets
Vienna’s markets are legendary, and there’s no shortage of them. The Christkindlmarkt in front of City Hall is the crown jewel, with its stunning backdrop, festive stalls, and a giant Christmas tree.
For a cozier vibe, head to the Spittelberg market, tucked away in charming narrow streets, or the Schönbrunn Palace market for a dash of imperial magic.
Hot Drinks and Festive Treats
From mugs of steaming glühwein (mulled wine) to sugary krapfen (filled doughnuts) and roasted chestnuts, Vienna’s got your holiday cravings covered.
And let’s not forget the sachertorte—indulging in this famous chocolate cake feels even more festive during the holidays. I can confirm this cake is sensational! You can also see where we tried this in my YouTube vlog above.
Music Scene
Christmas in Vienna means world-class concerts, including traditional performances at the Vienna State Opera and special holiday concerts in grand venues like St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
The sound of classical music fills the air, giving the whole city a magical soundtrack.
Architecture and Decorations
Vienna’s historic buildings look even more regal with their festive lights, and strolling through the cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time.
Also, don’t miss the dazzling light displays on Kärntner Straße and Graben, two of Vienna’s most famous shopping streets.
Tradition and Culture
From horse-drawn carriages to cozy cafés serving seasonal specialties, everything about this city feels timeless and festive.
So if you’re dreaming of a Christmas that feels straight out of a storybook, Vienna is the place to be.
Festive Hotels to Stay at in Vienna this Christmas
Vienna knows how to do Christmas in style, and its hotels are no exception. So here are some incredible places to stay that bring the festive spirit to life:
1. Hotel Sacher Wien
If you’re after classic Viennese luxury, look no further than Hotel Sacher. Located right next to the State Opera, this iconic hotel goes all out for Christmas with stunning decorations and festive touches.
Also, don’t miss their legendary sachertorte in the cozy café—it’s a holiday must.
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna
This elegant hotel is a perfect mix of modern luxury and festive charm.
Their Christmas decorations are gorgeous, and the rooftop Christmas market, complete with mulled wine and panoramic views, is also a unique highlight.
3. Hotel Imperial
Step into imperial splendour at this historic hotel, which is truly magical during the holiday season.
Their festive décor is elegant and refined, and the location on the Ringstrasse makes it so easy to explore Vienna’s Christmas markets and landmarks.
4. Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna
This grand hotel offers a cozy yet luxurious holiday experience.
While their festive afternoon teas and holiday dining options are a treat, the lobby’s twinkling decorations also set the perfect holiday mood.
5. Boutiquehotel Stadthalle
For a more eco-friendly festive stay, this charming boutique hotel is a great option. It’s decked out in holiday cheer, and the cozy atmosphere also makes it feel like a home away from home.
Plus, it’s within easy reach of Vienna’s Christmas markets.
RELATED blog post to read: How to Spend 48 Hours in Vienna, Austria: Travel Guide
3. Prague, Czech Republic
A popular stag-do destination, but also a cheap weekend getaway, it seems Prague is becoming more popular over the Christmas period as a cheap winter getaway.
This is somewhere I haven’t yet visited, but that is high on my list when it comes to Eastern Europe.
An alternative Eastern-European destination that I would highly recommend is Bucharest. We recently spent a few days there at the beginning of this year, so I would add this to your list of Christmas destinations for sure!
A visit to Therme Spa would be glorious at this time of year too!
Why You Should Visit Prague this Christmas
Prague at Christmas feels like stepping into a fairytale. With its Gothic spires, cobblestone streets, and layers of festive lights, the city becomes even more enchanting during the holiday season.
So here’s why Prague should be at the top of your Christmas travel list:
Christmas Markets
Prague’s Old Town Square market is like no other, set against the backdrop of the Astronomical Clock and Týn Church. It’s magical during the day but completely breathtaking at night when the square glows with festive lights.
For something more local, head to the smaller markets in Wenceslas Square or Náměstí Míru for a cozy vibe.
Food and Drink
Christmas in Prague is a foodie’s dream. Sip on svařák (Czech mulled wine), munch on trdelník (sweet chimney cakes rolled in sugar and nuts), and also try vánočka, a traditional braided Christmas bread.
So if you’re feeling adventurous, sample the roasted pork or smoked sausages sold at market stalls—it’s pure comfort food.
Stunning Architecture
The Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and Old Town Square are draped in festive charm, with lights reflecting off the Vltava River for an extra dash of romance.
Holiday Traditions
From nativity scenes to live carol performances, the city is brimming with Christmas spirit. Also, don’t miss the big tree lighting in Old Town Square—it’s the centrepiece of the season.
Festive Atmosphere
In Prague, it’s cozy, historic, and full of charm at Christmas.
Whether you’re walking through snow-dusted streets or enjoying a hot drink in a medieval tavern, the whole city feels like it’s giving you a festive hug.
Festive Hotels to Stay at in Prague this Christmas
Prague has no shortage of cozy and magical places to stay during the holidays. So, here are some of the best hotels to make your Christmas visit extra special:
1. Hotel U Prince
Located right in Old Town Square, this charming boutique hotel gives you a front-row seat to Prague’s Christmas magic.
Some rooms even offer views of the square’s Christmas tree and market, making it perfect for soaking in the festive atmosphere.
2. Mandarin Oriental, Prague
This luxurious hotel, set in a restored monastery, offers a peaceful and elegant retreat during the holidays.
The festive decorations, exceptional service, and tranquil spa also make it an indulgent place to stay.
3. Grand Hotel Bohemia
This centrally located hotel exudes Old World charm and also goes all out with its holiday décor.
Its proximity to Old Town Square means you’re just steps away from the best Christmas markets.
4. Aria Hotel Prague
Music lovers will so adore this boutique hotel in the heart of the Lesser Town (Malá Strana).
The cozy ambiance, festive touches, and stunning views of Prague’s rooftops make it a wonderful Christmas getaway.
5. The Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa
Housed in a historic building, this opulent hotel feels like a Christmas dream.
The lavish décor, fairy-tale-like setting, and relaxing spa also make it an unforgettable place to spend the holidays.
The Most Festive Places to Spend Christmas this Year
Christmas is the perfect excuse to pack your bags, explore somewhere new, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether it’s the sparkling decorations, the mouthwatering festive treats, or the joy of immersing yourself in local holiday traditions, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the magic of Christmas in a different corner of the world.
From the romantic charm of Vienna to London’s glowing streets and Prague’s storybook setting, these destinations prove that Christmas isn’t just a day—it’s also a feeling.
So, why not make this year unforgettable by celebrating in one of these festive hotspots?
Wherever you choose to go, your Christmas adventure is bound to be as magical as the season itself.
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