The Ultimate Holiday Travel Bucket List: 25 Destinations Around the World
The holiday season is one of the most enchanting times of the year to travel. Whether you're dreaming of snow-covered streets lined with twinkling lights or sun-soaked beaches with festive flair, the world is filled with destinations that embrace the magic of the season. This curated holiday travel bucket list features 25 of the most festive, heartwarming, and memorable places to spend the holidays - from classic European Christmas markets to once-in-a-lifetime light displays across Asia, the Americas, and Australia.
Europe
Lapland, Finland
Step into the ultimate winter wonderland in the official hometown of Santa Claus. In Lapland, you can enjoy reindeer sleigh rides, meet Santa himself, and even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing across the sky.
Strasbourg, France – The Capital of Christmas
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s medieval charm is unmatched during the holidays. The half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets glow under festive lights, while one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets fills the air with the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna transforms into a storybook setting in winter, with elegant Christmas markets offering traditional Austrian pastries, handcrafted gifts, and warm drinks under baroque architecture.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s Festival of Lights illuminates iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Cathedral with colorful, larger-than-life projections. It’s a modern twist on holiday cheer you won't forget.
Prague, Czech Republic
Explore Old Town Square’s charming Christmas market, set against the backdrop of historic buildings and the Prague Castle. It’s a picture-perfect destination that brings fairytale vibes to life.
London, England
Celebrate the season at London’s Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree Lighting, a tradition gifted annually by Norway. The city also sparkles with pantomime performances, charming ice rinks, and festive markets.
Brussels, Belgium
Home to the beloved Grand Place Christmas Market, Brussels combines a classic holiday experience with Belgian delights, like waffles, chocolates, and vin chaud.
European Christmas River Cruises
If you’d like to experience multiple markets in one trip, a holiday river cruise along the Danube or Rhine offers stops in Germany, Austria, Hungary, and more, all while sipping mulled wine from the deck.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Set beneath the city’s dramatic castle, the Edinburgh Christmas Market is filled with handcrafted goods, Scottish treats, and fun fair rides perfect for the whole family.
Dublin, Ireland
Ireland’s “12 Pubs of Christmas” tradition invites groups of friends (and adventurous travelers) to throw on their tackiest holiday sweaters and enjoy festive drinks at a dozen themed pubs.
Tallinn, Estonia
Step into a medieval snow globe in Tallinn’s Old Town. The Christmas market shows off one of Europe’s oldest Christmas trees (dating back to the 1400s), Estonian comfort foods, and sleigh rides through cobblestone streets.
London’s Holiday Theater Scene
Catch a classic Christmas pantomime in London’s West End. These comedic, interactive shows are based on childhood favorites and are a cherished holiday tradition across the UK.
Salzburg, Austria
Discover the charm of Salzburg’s Advent markets, where Mozart’s hometown comes alive with choral performances, food tastings, and historical walking tours through the festive Old Town.
North & South America
Ice Skating in Central Park, NYC
Glide across the iconic Wollman Rink in Central Park, with views of the Manhattan skyline and twinkling lights surrounding the frozen pond.
Rockefeller Tree Lighting, NYC
The annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is a New York City holiday staple, complete with music, performances, and photo ops in front of a towering tree wrapped in lights.
Candlelight Processional at Epcot, Orlando
This moving holiday performance at Walt Disney World’s Epcot features celebrity narrators, a full orchestra, and a mass choir recounting the Christmas story.
Sleigh Riding in Vermont
Trot through New England’s snow-draped landscapes on a cozy, horse-drawn sleigh ride - a timeless way to celebrate the season.
White Christmas in Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is the definition of a luxury Christmas destination. Think snowy slopes, glowing lights, and events like Snowmass Luminescence, an immersive art and light display.
Polar Express Train Ride, Alaska
Embark on a festive journey aboard the Aurora Winter Train, traveling from Anchorage to Fairbanks. Along the way, passengers enjoy panoramic views of snowy Denali and, if lucky, the Northern Lights.
Québec City, Canada
Old Québec transforms into a real-life Christmas village, with the German Christmas Market, European-style treats, and festive décor throughout the cobblestone streets. The Château Frontenac adds a magical touch to this winter wonderland.
Medellín, Colombia
Medellín’s Alumbrados Navideños is one of South America's most famous holiday light displays, turning parks and boulevards into a glowing wonderland with music, street food, and live performances.
Australia
Christmas at Bondi Beach, Sydney
Swap snow for sand this season. Celebrate Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere with beach barbecues, surfing Santas, and festive seaside vibes.
Perth Christmas Lights Trail
Perth lights up with a spectacular Christmas Lights Trail, featuring over 30 immersive displays, including a 105-foot-long tunnel of lights that dazzles visitors young and old.
Asia
Kobe, Japan
Each December, Kobe’s Luminarie light festival honors resilience and hope through millions of lights, illuminating the city’s streets and waterfront in glowing color.
Christmas Wonderland, Singapore
Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay hosts an over-the-top Christmas Wonderland filled with illuminated sculptures, holiday treats, carnival rides, and snow shows under the Supertree Grove.
Ready to Check Off Your Holiday Bucket List?
Whether you're in search of snowy magic, twinkling lights, or sun-drenched celebrations, these destinations offer something truly unforgettable. Add one, or several, of these experiences to your holiday travel bucket list and make this season your most memorable yet.
