8 Perfect Christmas Vacation Ideas for Every Type of Traveler
Celebrate Your Way
Looking to escape the snow in search of someplace hot and sunny, or longing for a festive white Christmas for a change? Whether hot or cold, one of these enchanting cities is sure to spark your interest.
From holiday markets and festivals to snow and water sports to cultural happenings, these cities make for the best Christmas vacations, providing seemingly endless opportunities for entertainment. Or, if you’re just looking for a little R&R, there are options for the most laid-back travelers as well.
1. New York City, New York
New York City is one of the most magical places to go for Christmas. Despite temperatures near or below freezing, there are tons of festive things to do and see while in the city.
From catching a Broadway show to watching the tree lighting at Rockefeller Center to enjoying the holiday window displays with a cup of cocoa, nothing beats the excitement of Christmas in the Big Apple. Central Park is especially memorable in the winter when it’s blanketed in white. You can enjoy ice skating, sledding and plenty of snow-filled fun for all ages.
2. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
In Mexico, Christmas is synonymous with party time. San Miguel de Allende in particular offers a memorable holiday experience with traditional posadas, or holiday festivals where local residents play out Joseph and Mary’s journey to find lodging for Jesus’ birth.
The Fiesta Navidad, as it’s called, features concerts, fireworks, elaborate meals and donkeys roaming throughout the colonial city making for a charming old world experience. During the day, enjoy San Miguel de Allende’s artistic spirit in addition to basking in thermal baths or hiking among ancient pyramids at the Cañada de la Virgen.
A Danube river cruise is one of the best ways to see Europe, taking you from one cultural center to the next. Here's why you should hop aboard.
3. Montreux, Switzerland
While you could surely go skiing at one of the nearby resorts, if you visit Montreux during December, you’re in for a treat. Situated on Lake Geneva at the foot of The Alps, the Swiss city boasts one of the largest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe, Montreux Noel.
A perfect family getaway, the market has shopping, chocolate and candle making workshops, a medieval festival at Chillon Castle, and a magic garden full of Christmas lights. Most special of all, however, is the train that takes you right to Santa’s house for an exclusive meet-and-greet and optional sleepover in a yurt.
Want a more budget-friendly option? The city of Adermatt is a great destination for a cheap Christmas vacation and still has traditional Christmas markets in addition to snowy ski slopes.
