5 Christmassy Getaway Destinations
It’s beginning to look at lot like Christmas… at least it does in these destinations. Have you been thinking about a Christmassy getaway for you and your partner or even with the kids? We’ve rounded up a list of the best Christmassy getaway destinations that we think you’d love to visit.
So without further adieu, we’ve found seven destinations that fit the description of the ultimate Christmassy getaway. And if this list leaves you feeling festive, there’s no time like the present to jet off!
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a beautiful city at any time of the year, but the festive period has to be the best. You could fill your days simply meandering down the streets alone, but why would you when it has so much more to offer?
Pay a visit to the inventors of the Hygge concept (the idea that being cosy makes you happier) and maybe indulge in some hot cocoa.
When you start to get a little peckish, head to one of the many incredible Christmas markets to sample some of the local cuisines and when you get too cold to stay outside any longer, warm up with a stroll around one of the many museums or head to a quirky café – after all, Copenhagen is one of Europe’s happiest nations!
New York, USA
Well we weren’t going to get very far with this list if we didn’t include the Big Apple, were we? Thanks to Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, everyone has Christmas time in New York on their bucket list, and for good reason.
A snowy Central Park visit is a must, and even a simple wander around the shops is a sight to behold with some of the most amazing windows displays ever created.
If window shopping is not your thing, don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do. Ice skating at the Rockefeller rink with the famous Christmas tree as the backdrop is always a popular choice, but you may need to book early as it gets really busy. Even if you’re not up for a skate, make sure you get there to see the tree in all its glory – it really is worth battling the crowds for.
Strasbourg, France
If you love a Christmas market, France is the destination for you. This is where they are infamous for their markets, so even though they’re now extremely popular all over the world, France will give you the authentic feel.
The Strasbourg market is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to 1570. Tuck into their culinary delights and grab a mulled wine to keep you warm as you stroll around hundreds of stalls looking at beautiful Christmas decorations and other handmade knick-knacks – it’s the perfect place to pick up some Christmas gifts for your loved ones.
As well as the amazing markets, Strasbourg also has a fascinating history if you can stand the cold long enough to take a guided tour.
Lapland, Finland
A festive trip to Lapland is a holiday many of us dream of – both adults and children alike! And if you’re no exception and have always wanted to meet the big man and his reindeer, we don’t blame you.
As well as paying Santa a visit, a Christmas getaway in Lapland usually involves a lot of relaxing in a cosy cabin with close friends and family, as temperatures can drop as low as -9 degrees Celsius in December.
If you don’t mind the cold, there’s plenty to do, such as snowmobile safaris, skiing or warming up in one of its well-known saunas. And don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the infamous Northern Lights which can be often be seen on clear nights.
St Petersberg, Russia
Another European city, another Christmas market. St Petersberg offers a whole host of different markets, all with the same family-friendly vibes complete with grottos, fairground rides and more gingerbread than you could hope for.
St. Petersburg is the ideal Christmas vacation for those looking for something a little different, where the landscape of the city still looks like it’s been plucked from an idyllic Christmas card with snow aplenty.
But that’s certainly not all it has to offer. Take a stroll around the streets, alight with Christmas decoration highlighting the incredible architecture. If you’re lucky, your visit may coincide with its International Winter Festival, featuring tonnes of fascinating local culture.