30+ Christmas Getaways for a Holiday Adventure

Absolutely! We love Christmas more than any other time of the year. As the holidays approach, everyone’s favorite Christmas movies are streaming repeatedly, and matched pajamas are all we want to wear! These things can be seen and done from home, but sometimes, you might want to go somewhere else to feel a certain kind of winter joy. So we’ll tell them: It’s time to plan a getaway!

We’ve compiled a list of 30+ Christmas getaways that will be at the top of your holiday wish list to help you choose where to head for your 2023 holiday. So prepare your bags because Christmas is almost here, and your holiday trip awaits you!

30+ Christmas Getaways to Light Up Your Winter Season

1. New York City 

How could we miss this dynamic city? There are a lot of ways to celebrate the holiday in New York, the city that never sleeps, such as going skating on the ice, window shopping at Bloomingdales, or discovering the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Plus, the Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting is the most popular occasion in the country that you can try every year.

2.  Cape May, New Jersey

Everyone, from couples to families, will love a holiday getaway to Cape May. On December 1, the town has a Christmas parade, and many historic houses and hotels are dressed very nicely for the season. Night at this place will be the most beautiful time because the atmosphere and Christmas spirit will cover every scene. It is truly sparkling and worth experiencing, we must say.

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

If you have big enough thoughts, Las Vegas can be everything that you would like it to be. It’s the right place for people who want to have fun away from it all. With many fun activities for all ages at Christmas, Las Vegas is always an ideal destination for many tourists worldwide. If you haven’t checked in to this place yet, this Christmas is a great opportunity to explore it.

4. Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock, Vermont, is the place that screams Christmas the loudest! It looks like Woodstock is from a Hallmark movie because of the holiday horse rides, brightly lit streets, and cute Christmas shops. It’s wonderful for families who want a relaxing short vacation. Walking together under the beautiful scenery here in winter—what could be more wonderful?

5. Frankenmuth, Michigan

There are Christmas markets in Europe, but you can’t go this year. Make plans to visit Frankenmuth, Michigan, instead of waiting for the best thing to happen. 

This little town has a lot of fun things to do and beautiful buildings. You can ice skate in the park, drive through the lit-up streets, or buy decorations for your Christmas tree at one of the holiday stores. Frankenmuth’s renowned all-you-can-eat fried chicken dinner is at Zehnder’s, and there’s also a water park for children.

6. Washington, D.C.

The center of the United States has everything. There is a lot of history to learn about, as well as great places to shop and enjoy. For a traditional American Christmas feel, Washington, DC, is always an exciting destination to visit in winter.

7. Budapest, Hungary

Like to look at holiday lights? Budapest does them better than anyone else! It’s great to immerse yourself in the life of this famous capital in the winter. You and your loved ones will have a fantastic time here as it has many historical places and Christmas events that have been going on for a long time. This attractive European city’s many Christmas marketplaces and food sellers are well known. 

8. New Orleans

New Orleans comes to life at Christmas with events like Bonfires on the Levee, a beautiful show along the Mississippi, and Candlelight Caroling in Jackson Square. Also, don’t miss the celebration in the Oaks in City Park. 

Visitors can ride a train and see 25 acres of Christmas lights and displays. Families can have a great time in The Big Easy, but the city’s lively nightlife makes it a great place for couples to get away.

9. Munich, Germany

After looking at a few images of Munich at Christmas time, we’re sure you’ll want to book your next holiday flight there as soon as possible. A lot of Christmas shops are set up in the city for people to enjoy. With a mix of traditional and modern features, the winter festival in Munich is an appealing attraction.

10. Salt Lake City, Utah

During the holidays, Salt Lake City is a great place to have fun. At the Grand America, you can get a good look at their fancy Christmas show. It is a great place for you and your family to enjoy peace this Christmas. So get tickets to see the Nutcracker once a year and check out the Zoolights at Utah’s Hogle Zoo!

11. Dublin, Ireland

Don’t miss Dublin if you want to celebrate Christmas with a real Irish bar crawl. On a cold Christmas night, nothing beats black pudding and a few pints to keep you warm. And believe us, this city is full of cozy places to last you until New Year’s. Naturally, the Irish city is more than just partying. Holiday activities in Boston include Christmas markets, shops on Grafton Street that are decked out, and lots of tree-lighting events.

12. Orlando, Florida

For a fun Christmas vacation that everyone will enjoy, you can get away from the cold and go to sunny Florida. Even though it’s best known for its theme parks, like Universal Studios, Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld, and Legoland, there are many other fun things to do, especially with kids! 

Orlando has many things to do besides its famous parks, such as shopping, eating, the arts, and theater. The diversity of experiences makes your holiday meaningful and unforgettable.

13. Edinburgh, Scotland

What a magical and brilliant destination! Because Edinburgh has a Christmas fair for six weeks, it had to be on your Christmas list! Anyone from a family to a group of friends could enjoy this vacation. There is a theme park, lots of food, and numerous activities that showcase Scottish tradition. The Christmas spirit here is so happy and lively that it makes everyone forget about the way back (just kidding).

14. The White Mountains, New Hampshire

In December, when Santa isn’t at the North Pole, he’s probably hanging out with the elves at Santa’s Village in Jefferson, New Hampshire. According to its name, the theme park is exactly what you’d expect.

You’ll find roller coasters with Christmas themes, roaming reindeer, dressing up snowmen, and hot cocoa to warm you up. For that reason, the White Mountains are a great place to get away for couples, families, and anyone who is okay with the cold.

15. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Do you like to skate or mountain bike in beautiful places? Let’s go to Jackson Hole, Wyoming! There are many holiday events in the area for the whole family, such as fireworks to welcome in the new year. 

Additionally, the center area remains gorgeously dressed for this festival season. Children will love it so much because everything is covered in snow, along with very interesting winter games. What are you waiting for? Come here now!

16. Taos, New Mexico

The Taos Ski Valley, in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and known as the “Soul of the Southwest,” is a renowned spot for skiers and riders. Taos was once a trade stop, but now it’s a beacon for skiers looking for outstanding powder. 

It’s also known for its great dishes, art population, and Native American culture.  You can enjoy music, traditional Native American dances, a holiday market, crafts shows with the work of local artists, and other holiday activities here.

17. The Rhine, Northeastern Switzerland

You can enjoy Christmastime while floating down the Rhine with a glass of homemade wine. As you observe, steep fields and old buildings zip by. A Rhine tour with stops in Rhineland towns like Cologne, Koblenz, and Bonn is an excellent pick for a relaxing holiday celebration. 

Christmas lovers will meet in these lovely Christmas marketplaces, where lights twinkle, the noise of skates on an ice rink, shoppers’ sounds, and Christmas songs make for a cheerful background. Who can resist the undeniable charm of this place?

18. Málaga, Spain

With its location in the south of Spain, Málaga truly goes all out for getaways. You can see some of the best lights in town along Calle Larios starting at the end of November and staying on all the way through December. Additionally, you should not miss the Christmas markets, the huge nativity sets, or the free music at Plaza de la Constitución.

19. Santa Fe, New Mexico

The Christmas season makes Santa Fe’s rich cultural history stand out even more. Visitors can enjoy the stunning Christmas lights and stay for the yearly festivity at the Palace of the Governors. What a great idea for your Christmas to have a generous and unique Latin style!

20. Big Sky, Montana

Anyone who wants to feel like they’re on top of the world should go to Big Sky. You can ski, walk, toboggan, and sled in the Rockies and enjoy their beauty. You will have a great time here because of the cozy Christmas mood and breathtaking mountain views. What a great destination you can try going to this Christmas!

21. Gdańsk, Poland

As the month-long Christmas Fair, this fantasy port city really feels cozy and welcoming during the holidays. The energetic and happy mood will make your journey a lot more enjoyable. An enchanted snow globe, a sleigh ride flight simulator, and a talking elk are some of the best things.

22. Key West, Florida

What an ideal destination that you don’t want to miss this year! If you dislike the cold but want to feel like Christmas itself, Key West is the best place you should visit. This warm Florida city decorates its favorite tourist spots and holds a holiday tour, a Christmas car show, and a seasonal light show every year! 

23. Vail, Colorado

Virginia City, Colorado, has been the destination of many family trips. This is an ideal place where they can spend Christmas together. It has lots of skiing, a beautiful ski town, and Ree’s favorite church. With its location in the Rocky Mountains, Vail is a great place for people who want to go on adventures or just relax with hot chocolate.

24. Basel, Switzerland

Christmas markets are a big deal in most of Europe, and Switzerland is no different. Holiday cheer can be found in almost every city and town. Basel gets extra points because it has two markets, one in Barfüsserplatz and one in Münsterplatz. 

Many people are selling treats and handmade goods from their stands, and many lights and displays sparkle. You may discover some truly special Christmas mementos at these markets and surely enjoy an unforgettable holiday.

25. Williamsburg, Virginia

Christmas Town is one of the biggest holiday light shows in North America, and it’s held every year at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg. When you come here, you and your family can enjoy many different special winter events. There are also parks, museums, shops, and cafés in Williamsburg that visitors are known for. What a great getaway during Christmas, right?

26. Beaver Creek, Colorado

Some of the best ski slopes in the country are in Beaver Creek. It’s renowned for its high-end restaurants and interesting things to do with families. To put it another way, this ski town has everything! When you arrive here, the majestic scenery of the snowy mountains will overwhelm you. What a great place to make your Christmas this year more special than ever!!

27. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

The name “Christmas City” comes for a good reason! It’s not an easy thing to be called Bethlehem. Downtown will be lit up with green, red, and any other color of lights. Anytime you hear the sound of hooves moving along the road, it’s probably one of the many carriages with horse rides in the town.

28. Salzburg, Austria

As you start your trip to this peaceful place, stroll down the small Getreidegasse, Salzburg’s fancy shopping street, where five-story Renaissance homes protect you from the cold winter weather. After, stop by Seppo’s small wine bar for a glass of prosecco or the secret Sternbrau beer garden to get close to other people. This will be a wonderful experience that you never expected!

29. Rovaniemi, Finland

When you consider it, Rovaniemi has become Santa’s hometown! This is where Santa Claus Village and Santa Park are located. There is a show here with a Santa lookalike for the whole town, animals and all. When you come here in winter, you and your family can feel the atmosphere of Christmas covering everything—such an amazing experience.

30. Tenerife, Spain

Here’s where you should be if you want a little more December sunshine this Christmas. Also, the natural majesty of coastal villages and coves, cute old towns, a jungle-covered in lichen, and deep, beautiful ravines. There is also a beautiful view of Mount Teide, Spain’s tallest mountain, and a volcano that is 200,000 years old.

31. Charleston, South Carolina

Whenever you think about Christmas, forget everything you know about Charleston. Every year, this lovely city has a Festival of Lights that turns the whole area into a winter wonderland (without the cold weather!). You can also visit one of the numerous lovely beaches close to Charleston.

32. Montreal, Canada

Even though Montreal is a modern and lively city, the “Old Montreal” area is alive with old-fashioned magic. When you get there, the sound of the accordion will make you feel like you’re walking down the winding streets of Paris. There is real magic during the holidays, though. At Christmas, this city will be filled with wonderful snowmen and sparkling festive trees.

33. Berlin, Germany

Germany enjoys the Christmas season, and its famous Christmas markets are full of people drinking mulled wine and looking at bright Christmas decorations. Berlin’s cool side has a big amusement park, and the Alexanderplatz performance will immediately get you in the Christmas mood. There’s a good chance it will snow. In December, temperatures can drop well below zero, and the usual low is -1C.

34. Quebec City, Canada

Every day of the year, this city is magical. But at Christmas, there is a little more flair. You should plan a trip to Quebec City to learn about its interesting past, see its beautiful European architecture, and taste some delicious foods. The ancient beauty and peace here make even the hardest of hearts fall in love.

35. Leavenworth, Washington

Last but not least, many of these places have been talked about a lot, but the most magical one is still to come. The light, the people in the town, and the lovely building designs. It is a beautiful and grand scene that leaves everyone speechless. As soon as you get to Leavenworth, Washington, you’ll feel like you’re in a fairy tale. 

Read More: Global Anniversary Weekend Getaways

Final Words

This list has everything you need for your next holiday trip, no matter how you feel. There’s always Orlando, Florida, which is always a family favorite. You could also go to New York, which has the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and pretty much every other kind of holiday light you are aware of.

These 30+ Christmas getaways will surely get you in the holiday spirit, whether your idea of fun is drinking rum punch on the beach or going to a cute New England town. It’s time to plan a Christmas getaway! Hope you can find an ideal place to spend and enjoy wonderful memories on your special day.