There are so many lovely places to visit around the world. Here are some of my favourites to visit during the winter/Christmas season including Germany, Poland, Czechia, Scotland, and of course those looking for some winter sun I have you covered too!
Festive Destinations to Visit During the Christmas Season
Munich, Germany
The large Bavarian city - Munich, has a few Christmas markets from the large Münchner Christkindlmarkt, said to be one of the oldest in Europe takes place every year from the end of November to 24th December in the historical square - Marienplatz. It is also said to be the largest nativity scene market, there are also smaller Christmas markets taking place around the city's districts. One of the best for traditional handicrafts is located right outside Munich Airport. The Christmas and Winter market is in the middle of a decorated fir forest with an ice skating rink, food and drink options with a real festive atmosphere. This year there will be over 50 stalls at the Munich Airport Center (MAC) Forum.
You can expect to find lots of mulled wine (Glühwein), grilled sausages (Bratwurst), and crispy fried onions. We also enjoyed grilled potato fritters with apple sauce. Delicious! The markets are usually decorated with festive lights, Christmas trees, and traditional Christmas decorations including the Christmas pyramid (Weihnachtspyramide). Invented in the Erzgebirge mountain region in the 1700's. As well as the Christmas markets, there are interesting museums and attractions to visit. Highly recommend Munich film studios - The Bavaria Filmstadt in Geiselgasteig near Munich. We visited especially to see The Never Ending Story studio.
Prague, Czechia
Explore the Christmas markets at Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) with its iconic Astronomical Clock and Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí) from the end of November through until the beginning of January. You will find local hand-made products, gifts, Christmas decorations, candles, and refreshments such as roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and gingerbread. You might like to enjoy a traditional Christmas meal including fish. We also thoroughly enjoyed local broth soup served in a large bread bowl. It was really good!
While there don't miss a stroll over Charles Bridge that crosses over the Vitava River (The plaque on the statue of John of Nepomuk has been polished to a shine by countless people having touched it over the centuries. Touching the falling priest on the plaque is supposed to bring good luck and ensure your return to Prague) and wander through the large 9th-century Baroque Prague Castle complex, that today, is still the official residence, workplace of the president of the Czech Republic and, home to the royal jewels including the Crown of Saint Wenceslas, the Royal Sceptre, and the Royal Orb (though these are only open to be seen by the public on special occasions).
Gdansk, Poland
One of the prettiest, historic, and smallest cities I have ever visited. The Gdansk Christmas Market (Gdański Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy) is beautiful, with an ample selection of drinks, hot food, snacks, and local handicraft gifts including ceramics, lace, wood, jewellery (amber) and, more. There is also entertainment from karaoke, elf parades, a talking moose, and more! You could also combine a visit to the home of gingerbread - Torun and much more. Voted one of the best European Christmas Market Destinations discover more about Gdansk in the travel blog - What You Need To Know About Visiting Gdansk, Poland.
Stockholm, Sweden
More commonly known as the home of ABBA and Volvo cars, Sweden is a winter wonderland! The capital - Stockholm encompasses 14 islands connected by 57 bridges! It has some lovely places to visit including the historic Gamla Stan (old town), 13th-century Storkyrkan Cathedral, the Kungliga Slottet Royal Palace, and the Nobel Museum, which focuses on the Nobel Prize. During the festive season Gamla Stan Julmarknader is the name of the Old Town Christmas market at Stortorget Square. This is definitely one of the best Christmas markets in Stockholm and one that you should absolutely visit, especially if it is your first time in the city. Dating back to the Middle Ages and amongst the iconic buildings, you will find over 40 stalls selling handicrafts including ceramics and fine smithing as well as sausages, mulled wine, and much more! Some of the other Christmas markets include Skansens julmarknad, Stortorgets Julmarknad and Beckmans julmarknad. The city has already had its first snowfall and it's magical.
Do beware of pickpockets and handbag thieves!
Edinburgh, Scotland
The historic and charming capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh is beautiful throughout the year but is extra magical with a dusting of snow. The Christmas market is already in full swing with wooden huts selling many hot snacks from apple crumble to sausages. Don't worry, there is also no shortage of drinks to wash all the food down! You can enjoy a deluxe hot chocolate with all the toppings, mulled wine, and a selection of beer. There is also a selection of crafts, gifts, and the daring/terrifying ride - The Starflyer.
You can find out more - Christmas In Edinburgh travel blog.
While wondering Edinburgh it can be quite chilly, warm up with one of these delicious hot chocolates or treat yourself to a festive afternoon tea.
New York, USA
The city that never sleeps, The Big Apple - New York is a fairytale during the holidays. With enchanting Christmas illuminations, entertaining festive shows, and must-do seasonal activities including a chocolate tour, The Ride, a Christmas dinner boat trip, and more!
Eastern Caribbean Cruise
If the cold isn't your thing, and you're looking for some vitamin sea (haha). Cruising at Christmas is magical. The decks are decked not with holly but spectacular Christmas decorations, beautiful adorned Christmas trees (each with a different theme/colour), and not forgetting all the delicious food!
Will you spend Christmas Day relaxing on the white sands of Anse Marcel Beach on the Caribbean Island of St Maarten?
More coming soon... with a detailed itinerary and what not to miss in each of the ports of call, while cruising on an Eastern Caribbean Cruise.
Australia
Christmas Day in Australia is commonly spent on the beach, from the famous Bondi Beach to many more across the country. You can find out more in the A to Z Travel Blog - Australia.
I hope you have enjoyed reading and are inspired to visit one or more of these beautiful festive destinations. As always, I love to hear from you with any comments/questions you have. You can reach me in the usual ways, email, Facebook, or comment below.
Until next time...happy travels, Michelle x
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