Discover 15 of the Best Places to Go for Christmas & New Years

The holiday season, in particular, Christmas and New Years mean something different for everyone, but it is surely a special time of the year for all to enjoy! So if you are looking for something amazing to do for Christmas or New Years we have a suggestion for you: why not take a trip? And to help you out, in this article we’ve put together the best places to go for Christmas and New Years vacations!


15 of the Best Places to Go for Christmas & New Years


New York, USA

In New York, there is an almost unlimited offer of activities you can do. In fact, Christmas starts in the Big Apple as soon as the big Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center in New York opens. Thus, Christmas lights illuminate the city and in particular the Island of Manhattan. In addition, Saks’ play of lights and music is simply thrilling and unmissable. The giant balls scattered through the streets are one of the hallmarks of this destination. Christmas fairs, ice skating are other elements that help create all the magic of Christmas and this season.

New York is one of The Best Places to go for Christmas
Christmas in the New York City (Photo by Andre Benz)

Paris, France

A must on on our list of the best places to visit for Christmas, known as the city of lights year round, when it comes to the holiday season the lights of Paris twinkle even brighter! From Christmas decorations to delight and fireworks over the Eiffel Tower, Paris is a must on any list of top holiday destinations to note. And if you are looking for a tailor-made tour or a visit to an exclusive luxury jewelry or perfume house, you MUST check out Le Connisseur!

LaFayette Department Store Paris (Photo by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay)
Holiday decor at Galeries Lafayette Paris (Photo by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay)

Vermont, USA

If you love the idea of a white Christmas in a rural setting then Vermont is definitely on of the best places for you to visit! There are many magical small towns to choose from. If you want a slightly less rural feel go for the capital Burlington. If you like to ski, then Stowe is winter wonderland you need to discover.

Vermont Christmas Town (Photo by form PxHere)
Vermont Christmas Town (Photo by form PxHere)

avalanche console table koket marble and brass luxury furniture

Saint-Barthélemy Island (St. Barts)

If snow is not your thing and you’d rather jet off to a tropical destination to escape the cold then Saint-Barthélemy Island in the Caribbean is a one of the best holiday destinations to discover. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns and tropical vibes all around, it’s no suprise the world’s rich and famous love St. Barts. While Chritmas can be a bit busy, this is part of the allure as everyone including locals are all about getting glitzy!

Tropical Christmas (Photo by Jeremy Bezanger)
Tropical Christmas (Photo by Jeremy Bezanger)

London, UK

Glittering lights, festivities, traditional markets, ice rinks and so much more await in London. One of the best holiday destinations for those looking for a European vacation, London will surely not disappoint. Looking to come for New Years instead? The firework show over Big Ben as the bells ring at midnight is a must see!

best places to go for new years Fireworks in London big ben (Photo by Chris Chabot)
Fireworks in London (Photo by Chris Chabot)

Prague, Czech Republic

With its famous attractions decked out and brighter than ever, celebrating Christmas in Prague is something to experience at least once in a lifetime. You can shop at the best Christmas market in Wenceslas Square. Try climbing to the top of Prague Castle and let yourself be enchanted by the roofs decorated with the snow that falls there at this time of year.

best holiday destinations Night Snow Prague Castle Winter Prague
Night Snow Prague Castle Winter Prague

Vienna, Austria

Every bit of Vienna looks like an enchanted place, straight out of a movie set. In fact, you’ll be delighted with Belvedere Palace and many other enchanting attractions. It is still possible to be an extra in the Nativity scene at St. Peter’s Church, isn’t that amazing? Vienna is a must on our list of the best places to visit for Christmas and New Years!

Vienna is one of the Best Places to Go for Christmas
Vienna, Austria (Photo by Anton / Unsplash)

Tallinn, Estonia

We suggest you take a walk in Tallinn Old Town because it is a truly authentic Christmas wonderland and a holidays destinations must. Another tip that we leave you is to find the most charming Christmas trees, located in Town Hall Square. Finally, you also have the chance to participate in a tour and get to know the city well, as there is a selection of fun trips to medieval times. We cannot forget to mention the beautiful handcrafts made in the city.

best holiday destinations Tallinn Estonia Christmas Market (Photo by Sergei Zjuganov)
Tallinn Estonia Christmas Market (Photo by Sergei Zjuganov)

French Alps

If we had to choose the best place for a family Christmas and New Year trip, this would be the chosen destination!
We think spending the festive season in the Alps just adds to the magic! Thus, Megeve, St Moritz, Val d’isere, Zermatt, Courchevel are among the top Ski Resorts for Christmas. You just have to enjoy it!

French Alps is one of the best places to go for Christmas
Val Thorens, France (Photo by Emma Wurfel)

More to Love:

Best Christmas Markets in Europe
The Best Towns to Celebrate Christmas
Best Places to Celebrate New Years


Reykjavik, Iceland

The residents of Reykjavik do not skimp on the party or the fireworks. In the skies of Iceland’s capital, you can see fireworks with around 500 different tones. After midnight, nightclubs and pubs fill with people, and celebrations last until the morning. If you’re lucky you might even get to see nature’s fireworks with a show of the Northern Lights!

Northern Lights, Reykjavik, Iceland
Northern Lights, Reykjavik, Iceland

Sydney, Australia

In this city, fireworks are spared no efforts, making it one of the most beautiful shows in the world. Fireworks are synchronized with a soundtrack and explode from the arches and road of the Sydney Harbor Bridge. If you’re thinking of taking a romantic New Year’s trip, know that you can watch the wonderful show on a cruise with your soulmate. Syndey is one of the best holiday destinations without doubt!

Sydney, Australia New Years Fireworks (Photo by Rob Chandler)
Sydney, Australia New Years Fireworks (Photo by Rob Chandler)

Copenhagen, Denmark

In the park Tivoli’s Gardens takes place the most traditional celebration in Copenhagen, the place gathers a crowd waiting for the fireworks display. City Hall Square is also a popular spot for people looking for New Year’s Eve celebrations. At midnight a big clock chimes announcing the arrival of another year, as happens in most other places.

Besides that, you have the chance to see the fireworks in the lovely and cozy restaurants and cafes, which are largely distinguished by the magnificent architecture.

Tivoli Garden fireworks Copenhagen, Denmark (Photo by Stig Nygaard)
Tivoli Garden fireworks Copenhagen, Denmark (Photo by Stig Nygaard)

Las Vegas, Nevada

The Las Vegas Strip is a popular place to ring in the New Year. Also in Las Vegas, most New Years Eve celebrations take place in hotels. We recommend that if your decision is to celebrate New Year’s Eve in one of these hotels, you make your reservation well in advance. There are so many unique and fun things to do in Las Vegas!

best places to go for new years Las Vegas
Las Vegas Monorail, Las Vegas (Photo by Ameer Basheer)

Venice, Italy

This is considered the most romantic destination and especially on New Year for all the surrounding climate and the architecture of the place. Venice also hosts a free street party every year, which receives thousands of people and includes concerts and musical performances. The event takes place in Piazza San Marco. Above all, you need good energy to get rid of the cold at this time of year.

best places to go for new years Venice Carnival (Photo by form PxHere)
Venice Carnival (Photo by form PxHere)

Québec City, Canada

Old city streets, snow, lights and an undeniable holiday charm, Canada’s Québec City is a for sure when it comes to the best places to visit for Christmas or New Years! Skate in the town square, stroll through a historic Christmas market or enjoy one of the many outdoor acitivties like skiing or tobagganing near by. Come for Christmas and celebrate through New Years with the whole city.

best places to go for Christmas Night in Québec City (Photo by Paul Falardeau)
Night in Québec City (Photo by Paul Falardeau)