Holidays are a magical time of year and the way we celebrate—and where—can be as unique as each of us. Whether you dream of a white Christmas in a snow-covered village, a sun-soaked holiday on a tropical beach, or being at home with your loved ones, the options are endless. From cozy countryside retreats to vibrant city celebrations or even off-the-beaten-path destinations, there’s a perfect spot for every kind of Christmas cheer. No matter how you envision the season, there’s a world of possibilities to make your holiday truly unforgettable.
Essential holiday preparation tips
Christmas is a busy period, and it’s especially stressful if you don’t plan ahead. Before we dive into our locations, here are a few tips to make holiday travel a jollier affair:
- Do your research: Being impulsive about your travel plans sounds fun but can quickly become nerve-wracking. To ensure your journey is as frictionless as possible, research your location, lodging, and attractions, and take local guidelines seriously.
- Book early: The end of the year is the high season for many locations, so it’s essential to book as early as possible. Additionally, you should expect crowds and aim for flexibility while visiting the most popular attractions.
- Prepare for holiday closures: Depending on which country you visit, businesses may close on Christmas Day. If you intend to be away for the whole season, plan on where you’ll be on the 25th. For example, see friends or family, or book accommodation with a kitchen to host a special lunch.
- Ship gifts ahead: You can likely find gifts while you’re travelling, but they create extra luggage. Consider buying gifts before you leave and shipping them ahead to any family or friends you’re visiting or wait until you’re back home to send them out.
- Get travel insurance: Travel insurance is essential protection for journey interruptions, stolen cash, lost luggage, and other events that could spoil a trip. We work with , Australia’s only travel insurance with instant payouts for common claims using the PassportCard.
Top 5 destinations to spend Christmas
There’s no end to holiday destinations but we’ve selected five locations that uniquely capture the Yuletide charm.
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
December is Copenhagen’s coldest month but also its most beautiful. At spots like the Shakespearean Kronborg Castle, Christmas markets take up residence, enticing tourists and forging sentimental memories with artisanal wonders.
We also recommend visiting the iconic Nyhavn. There, you’ll find a foodie’s paradise topped with authentic gløgg, a Yuletide speciality. Meanwhile, on the 13th of December, the Santa Lucia kayak parade passes through to dazzle and amuse.
Tivoli Gardens, one of Copenhagen’s most popular sites, comes to life as well. Buy tickets in advance and enjoy ballet shows, ice skating, themed rides, and an exclusive New Year’s dinner.
2. Alsace, France
Alsace’s mixture of history and serenity makes it a prime destination for more romantic travellers.
One staple in every tourist’s itinerary is Strasbourg. Arguably the most authentic Christmas experience in Western Europe, Strasbourg is home to the continent’s oldest Christmas market, Christkindelsmärik.
While there, Australians can enjoy mulled wine and fresh pretzels as they take in the giant tree situated on Place Kléber.
Beyond Strasbourg lies the mediaeval town of Riquewihr. Wine, museums, and leisurely tours pull you away from the cityscape. Well-preserved architecture takes a page out of fairytales, while endless wine tours could potentially top our own Barossa Valley.
3. Hokkaido, Japan
If you want to get out of the West, then Hokkaido, Japan is a unique offering. As the country’s northernmost prefecture, locals wholeheartedly embrace winter.
Christmas also isn’t as historically ingrained in Japan as it is in Australia or Europe. Consequently, if you want to slip away into the countryside, this is the place to do so.
Alternatively, the city of Sapporo twinkles with bright lights during the Sapporo White Illumination. A hallmark of the season, imaginative fixtures and a German-inspired market envelop Odori Park. Visit the Sapporo Tower at night to appreciate the city in full.
Winter sports fans can also head out to the slopes of Niseko. A resort town, Niseko provides various sites in Annupuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu and Hanazono with respective attractions for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snow tubing.
4. Aspen, Colorado, United States
If you’re heading to America, we suggest Aspen, Colorado as it’s the perfect departure from more popular US locations, like New York City and San Francisco.
Here, you and your family can enjoy the Rocky Mountains. Take part in the 12 Days of Aspen for a full itinerary of fun, music, and food. Plan ahead as events can change from year to year.
Meanwhile, for those more keen on going with the flow, Light Up the Night at the Aspen Snowmass Chapel is an annual event that encapsulates everything we love about American Christmas movies.
Alternatively, book a private sleigh ride at Aspen Carriage and Sleigh and have a romantic evening with your partner.
Lastly, no trip to Aspen is complete without skiing. Its beloved slopes provide world-class experiences for all skill levels, making it a must for enthusiasts and beginners alike.
5. Coastal Queensland, Australia
Thinking of staying closer to home for the holidays? The coasts of Queensland embody the perfect Australian Christmas through pristine beaches, ecological wonders, and hot summer days.
Brisbane, the state capital, decorates to impress. There’s usually something new to see every year. Cairns is worth a mention as it’s a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Christmas is the perfect time to explore tropical waters and see the reef or the world’s oldest rainforest in person.
The holiday season is joyful but busy, so it pays to be selective while planning your trip. Luckily, Christmas rolls around every year so you can pick a new location each time. Be it Copenhagen or coastal Queensland, there’s plenty of cheer to be had.
