For us Down Under, Christmas season involves days at the beach, backyard cricket, and barbecues.
It’s a vast difference from what we see in our favourite festive movies from the other side of the world. The winter wonderlands on our screens consist of snow, markets, and plenty of hot drinks.
And while summer in Australia is undoubtedly amazing, visiting one (or all) of the best white Christmas holiday destinations should be a bucket list item.
“A white Christmas isn’t just about the snow,” says James Smith, the founder of Travel-Lingual. “It’s about the people, the culture, and the holiday spirit.”
But finding the ideal white Christmas destinations takes planning.
“Look for places with enchanting Christmas markets, cosy hotels, and opportunities to immerse yourself in local holiday traditions,” says James.
Looking to live out your ultimate white Christmas fantasies? Here are the best places to go to do just that.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Whether visiting the annual Christmas markets, strolling through the Tivoli gardens, visiting the CopenHill indoor ski slope, or sipping gløgg (a Scandinavian mulled wine with raisins and almonds), you can’t go wrong with a white Christmas in Denmark.
Strasbourg, France
Oui! There’s a reason Strasbourg has declared itself the capital of Christmas. If not for its Christmas markets and gorgeous festive tree in Place Kleber, the city’s ice skating rink is a must-visit. You can also ascend to the top of the Strasbourg cathedral for picturesque views of the city. Or take a stroll through La Petite France!
Budapest, Hungary
One of the most colourful cities at Christmas time, Budapest is loved for its thermal baths. The main Christmas market in Vörösmarty square is a must-visit, as is the city ice rink next to Vajdahunyad Castle. And don’t forget to indulge in mulled wine while getting cosy by a fireplace!
Munich, Germany
Of course, Germany made this list of best white Christmas destinations. From their Christmas markets (aka Münchner Christkindlmarkts), Christmas tram, and ice skating at Muenchner Eiszauber, you will never run out of things to do. And if you have always wanted to try curling, take a trip to the Nymphenburger Canal!
Bern, Switzerland
A winter wonderland that is perfect for your camera roll. There’s the Berner Münster Christmas market, and the delectable mulled wine at Waisenhausplatz’s traditional Christmas market. Snow is never scarce with the Schwarzsee ice palaces and luxury igloo at Hotel Kemmeriboden-Bad, so you can hit the slopes if you desire!
Lapland, Finland
We simply had to include the home of Santa Claus Village. Lapland holds many winter wonders. Be transported into your favourite Christmas movie during a reindeer sleigh ride or a husky safari. Or, get your blood pumping with a snowmobile ride. If you go far enough north, you may even be able to catch a glimpse of the iconic northern lights!
Reykjavik, Iceland
Speaking of the northern lights, Reykjavik in Iceland is the best place to bask in their beauty. But this is just the icing on top of the country’s capital. Yule Town at Ingólfstorg and the Christmas Village in Hafnarfjörður will have you feeling all types of festive. Cosy and magical, the Christmas markets are a must visit, as is the ice skating at Ingolfstorg Square. Take your little ones to Santa’s mailbox at Laugavegur to post their lists to Santa.
New York City, United States
Always busy, New York City seems to get even more electric during the festive season. The holiday decor in Central Park is a sight to behold, as is the famous Rockefeller Christmas tree. If you’re a window shopper, take a stroll past stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s; they have magical window displays. Then there’s the iconic ice skating rink, and winter village at Bryant Park… you won’t run out of things to do or see.
Habuka Valley, Japan
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland destination that’s slightly closer to home, in the heart of the Northern Japanese Alps, lie Habuka Valley’s ski resorts; where snowmobiling and winter festivals are tourist favourites. The backcountry guided tours ensure you don’t miss any nook and cranny of the valley. Then there’s the Jigokudani monkey park for all the animal lovers too. It’s not white Christmas as you know it, but no less magical.
Quebec City, Canada
The cobblestone streets are enough reason to book a ticket to Quebec. Take a stroll along the St Lawrence river and you will see roads of shops decorated with holiday garlands and ethereal Christmas lights. In the middle of Quebec City is Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, a hotel that is akin to a castle. If you’re seeking a thrill, don’t miss out on sledding in the Quebec forest at Chenil La Poursuite, or skiing in the Village Vacances Valcartier.
