The holiday season is here! We can feel the Christmas cheer everywhere – at the office, on high street and on television.
Soon, most of us will return to their hometowns for the long-awaited family reunion and another portion of Hallmark Christmas movies. But if you want to escape the ordinary and embark on your next travel adventure, here some of the top holiday destinations.
Europe
Prague, the Czech Republic
Prague is one of the most visited European cities, especially in December. Famous for its Christmas markets, stunning architecture and delicious cuisine, the city welcomes thousands of tourists each holiday season.
Not into the Christmas spirit? Wait until you see the Old Town of Prague. At that time of the year, all centuries-old buildings are twinkling as if they’re dancing around the beautifully decorated Christmas tree at the centre of the Old Town Square.
For the best winter views, we recommend that you go to the Prague Castle Viewpoint or Letná Beer Garden.
Bruges, Belgium
Over the past few years, Bruges is gaining popularity with its fairy, gothic buildings and narrow medieval streets. If you want to feel its magic to the max, the holiday season is the perfect time to visit.
The city will delight you with beautiful Christmas markets, glowing Christmas trees and sweet aromas of mulled wine and spices floating in the air.
Love chocolate? Bruges has over 50 chocolate shops which will treat you well with amazing collections of hand-made Belgian chocolate. Visiting one of them is a must after a long walk around the old town of Bruges.
Rovaniemi, Finland
The capital of Lapland is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus and attracts not only families with kids, but people of all ages and from all over the world, who are allured by the holiday magic.
There are plenty of Christmas activities that you may take part in – you can decorate a Christmas tree, make gingerbread, go ice fishing on the glacier lake or write your own Christmas story by visiting the Santa Claus Village. In Rovaniemi, the holiday cheer is guaranteed and you’ll have a truly magical Christmas.
Zermatt, Swiss Alps
For those who love skiing and sightseeing, we’ve picked one interesting and car-free destination, namely Zermatt. Europe’s highest ski resort will win your heart with premier ski slopes, wonderful restaurants and the mighty peak of Matterhorn, surrounded by snowy scenery.
Тhe only way to get to Zermatt is by train but you won’t regret it. The route will forever remain in your heart with its staggering views of blue rivers, peaks and picturesque valleys.
While you’re in Zermatt, make sure to visit the Glacier Palace – a magical place located 15 meters below the glacier surface which will enchant you with ice sculptures and tunnels carved through the ice.
Paris, France
Paris got the name “the city of light” for a reason. Moreover, during the winter holidays, the most romantic city in the world transforms into a winter wonderland. The trees and buildings lined by Champs-Elysées are struck with garlands and lights, and all large stores have spectacular Christmas displays. There are ice-skating rinks and Christmas markets at several locations around the city.
Take a walk along the Seine, immerse yourself in ancient and modern history crossing paths in the Louvre and don’t miss to climb the magnificent Eiffel Tower.
Around the world
Hong Kong
Hong Kong may seem like an unexpected holiday destination at first. But if you have a look at their festive programme, you will certainly change your mind. Extravagant Christmas displays, abundantly decorated streets and skyscrapers, magical fairs and markets – this is just a small part of the holiday setting in Hong Kong.
For a truly breathtaking experience, you can book an evening Harbour Cruise to enjoy the spectacular view of the illuminated skyline.
New York, USA
Ice skating in the Rockefeller Center and New Year’s Eve on Time Square are on your bucket list? Head to New York and tick these off.
During the holiday season, the city gathers thousands of people from around the globe and offers tons of things to do. You can go ice skating in the Rockefeller ice rink, which has been around for 80 years, pay a visit to the Lincoln Center for the ultimate Christmas tradition: The Nutcracker, or indulge in a shopping spree in Bloomingdale’s.
Caribbean Islands
Want to spend the festive season lying on a beach and sipping a cocktail? Then, the Caribbean is the perfect place for your winter holiday escape.
The white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean are all you need for a “swim retreat” that will make you feel like you’re in heaven. You can spend your holiday resting under a giant palm tree or you can seize the opportunity to visit Cuba or the Dominican Republic.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai is another exotic destination which is a perfect choice for those seeking extraordinary experiences and warm, sunny days.
In December, the weather in Dubai is warm and ideal for sunbathing. Yet, if you feel nostalgia for winter scenes, you can visit the indoor ski resort Ski Dubai, located in the Mall of the Emirates, with 22,500 square meters of snow and a beautiful, mountain-themed setting.
If you visit for New Year, make sure to get a top spot at the waterfront of Dubai Fountain in order to enjoy the magnificent pyrotechnic show to the most.
Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
There is no better place to celebrate the beginning of the New Year than the Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro. Thousands of people dressed in white gather on the Rio’s most popular beach for the traditional New Year’s party with music, dances and fireworks.
Spending a lazy afternoon by the lake Lagoa is another thing to put on your list with things to do in Rio. During the holiday season, there is a giant floating Christmas tree strung with millions of twinkling lights in the lake. You’ll love it!
There you have it – the ultimate list with holiday destinations. Now, pick one and book your ticket! Whenever you go, as long as you have the holiday spirit and your LeoPay VISA with you, you’ll have a great time 😊
