We bet you’ve never seen Christmas look this beautiful!
It’s time!
We bet you’ve never seen Christmas look this beautiful!
Christmas is probably the most magical time of the year. One may be an adult, but we all hope there’s a miracle around the corner waiting for us, right? Kids expecting Santa, all those blinding lights, and the most beautiful decorations. Now, have you ever wondered what the best place to spend Christmas is? Some places take the holiday to the next level, so we’ve gathered 10 spots where this festivity makes all our dreams come true.
Cologne, Germany
Image: Andreas Felske
Cologne knows how to throw a Christmas party, one market at a time. Several pop up across the city, each with its own personality. The most famous one sits right next to the massive cathedral, creating a dramatic backdrop for lights, music, and mugs of steaming drinks. It’s lively, festive, and never feels too polished to be fun.
London, England
Image: Jamie Davies
True to its essence, London blends tradition with a little theatrical flair. Streets sparkle with elaborate light displays, shop windows lean into nostalgia, and seasonal markets pop up everywhere. Add in historic buildings and the occasional carol drifting through the air, and the city feels comfortably festive without trying too hard. Also, many movies are set in this city during this festivity, a whole new Christmas level!
New York City, USA
Image: Kaydn Ito
Few places go all in like New York at Christmas. Store windows become works of art, trees light up public spaces, and ice rinks fill with skaters of all skill levels. The city holds what is probably the most traditional tree lighting in the world, which brings tourists from all over the world more than any other day of the year. Have you ever witnessed it?
Copenhagen, Denmark
Image: Razvan Mirel
If cozy had a capital city, it would be Copenhagen. Christmas here is all about candlelight, warm pastries, and streets that glow after sunset. Tivoli Gardens turns into a winter fantasy with rides, decorations, and enough twinkling lights to make you stop mid-walk. Even a simple stroll feels special, especially when there’s hot mulled wine waiting at the next corner.
Strasbourg, France
Image: Filiz Elaerts
Strasbourg proudly calls itself the Christmas Capital, and it truly earns the title. Its market dates back hundreds of years and fills the old town with wooden stalls, ornaments, and spiced treats. Half-timbered houses look like they were designed for holiday postcards.
Prague, Czech Republic
Image: Carnet de Voyage d'Alex
Prague feels magical year-round, but Christmas adds an extra layer. The Old Town Square hosts a lively market with a towering tree, carols, and food that warms you from the inside out. Gothic towers and snowy rooftops do the rest. It’s the kind of place where you keep pulling out your camera, even if your hands are freezing.
Salzburg, Austria
Image: David Xeli
Music and mountains set the mood in Salzburg. Christmas markets pop up near historic squares, backed by Alpine scenery that feels straight out of a holiday movie. Choirs sing, church bells ring, and the whole city slows down just enough to enjoy the season. Even if you’re not a classical music fan, the atmosphere pulls you in.
Quebec City, Canada
Image: Sondoce wasfy
Quebec City delivers old-world charm without the need to cross an ocean. Cobblestone streets, stone buildings, and snow-covered rooftops make it feel like a European village dressed for the holidays. Decorations stay classic, lights stay soft, and the whole place invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment, preferably with something warm in your hands.
Medellín, Colombia
Image: Juan Apolinar
Medellín surprises many people at Christmas, and that’s part of the fun. The city’s famous light displays transform parks and riverbanks into glowing works of art. Families come out together, music fills the air, and the celebrations feel joyful rather than formal. It’s proof that Christmas cheer doesn’t require cold weather and the certainty that Latin America knows how to go big!
Sydney, Australia
Image: Rosie Steggles
Christmas in Sydney flips the script completely. Instead of snow boots, think sandals. Locals celebrate with beach gatherings, outdoor meals, and festive events under summer skies. Lights still shine and carols still play, but everything feels relaxed and sun-soaked. A little different than the Northern Hemisphere, but just as magic!
