Top 10 Best Christmas Travel Destinations Around the World

In Malaysia, the cold Christmas weather is not something you'll experience. Instead, vibrant and eye-catching Christmas trees light up the streets. For locals, Christmas symbolizes love and renewal, so they dress in their finest clothes and exchange heartfelt holiday greetings. A popular attraction during this time is the artificial snowfall shows. What's more, Christmas shopping in Malaysia is a treat, with huge discounts on luxury brands at shopping malls due to year-end sales.

In Kuala Lumpur and across the country, there are several churches that welcome visitors. On Christmas Eve, participating in services and activities at these churches offers a truly special experience. After prayers and carol singing, you can join fellow attendees for a delightful tea party with cakes. Christmas is also a perfect time to indulge in delicious meals. The traditional Malaysian Christmas menu features roasted meats (turkey or lamb), mashed potatoes, salads, vegetables, desserts, and beverages. Traditional local dishes like curry and satay (grilled skewers) are also commonly enjoyed. For dessert, fruitcake (chopped fruit soaked in brandy) and mince pies are the most beloved treats of the season.

When it comes to the best Christmas destinations in Europe, France, the fashion capital of the world, is certainly a top contender. In France, as in many other European countries, Christmas festivities kick off in late November and continue through December, making it a national holiday. During this time, visitors can experience renowned Christmas markets such as the Lille and Strasbourg markets, perfect for shopping and sampling local treats. French Christmas delicacies include foie gras, smoked salmon, oysters with breadcrumbs, and the iconic Yule log cake made with chestnuts and chocolate. On Christmas Eve, families gather for midnight mass, followed by the tradition of exchanging gifts from stockings hung on the tree.

Much like in other Nordic countries, most towns and cities in France host Christmas markets from mid-November to late December, offering a lively atmosphere and great shopping opportunities. The Strasbourg Christmas Market is the oldest and largest in France, dating back to the 16th century, while Lille Market in Northern France is highly popular due to its connection with Eurostar. Enjoying French wine and roasted chestnuts at the stalls in Lille is a memorable experience. Much like Vietnam’s Lunar New Year, French families often gather for a festive Réveillon dinner on Christmas Eve, enjoying a delicious meal with wine. This feast can last until 6 AM and is a cherished tradition in France.

Switzerland is another enchanting destination to experience the magic of Christmas. As snowflakes blanket the streets, the Swiss eagerly prepare for the festive season. During this time, Switzerland hosts unique competitions for Santa Claus impersonators of all ages and genders. The Christmas tree decorations here are notably simple, often adorned with candles or soft, subtle lights rather than the bright, flashy displays found in many Asian countries. After a traditional Swiss family meal, people gather around to sing, laugh, and enjoy each other's company.

Christmas markets are a hallmark of Switzerland during the holiday season, with quaint stalls decorated like tiny cottages offering everything from festive decorations to charming Santa Claus outfits. One of the highlights of Christmas in Switzerland is visiting the magical Christmas villages perched in the Swiss Alps. In these small, picturesque villages, the glowing lights, snow-covered rooftops, and beautifully decorated streets create an unforgettable, heartwarming atmosphere that captures the true spirit of Christmas.

Germany also boasts famous Christmas markets similar to those in France, but the focus here is mainly on decorations for the home and family. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, many Germans observe a period of fasting, seeking good fortune and peace for their families. On Christmas Eve, they prepare sumptuous meals featuring roasted goose and Christmas cakes. Notably, Germans believe Christmas is a family holiday, so no matter where they are, people return home to celebrate together with a festive meal.

Germany is renowned for its Christmas markets, offering everything from festive food to beautiful ornaments. One of the most iconic German Christmas decorations is handcrafted glass ornaments, which were first introduced in the U.S. by Woolworth stores in the 1880s. During the holiday season, Germany and Austria also host the famous 'Four Hills Tournament' ski jumping event. This annual competition begins in Oberstdorf, Germany, on December 29 or 30, continues in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, on New Year's Day, and finishes in Austria with events in Innsbruck and Bischofshofen in early January.

During Christmas in the United Kingdom, visitors are often enchanted by the land’s majestic beauty and festive charm. In Britain, mistletoe is a common decoration, and according to tradition, couples who find themselves beneath a mistletoe branch must stop and share a kiss. The traditional Christmas feast in the UK is both varied and delicious, with roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and an array of vegetables making up the main meal. Of course, no British Christmas is complete without the iconic Christmas pudding, which graces tables across the country. Christmas also means a long break for students, who return home to enjoy the warmth of the season with their families. After the Christmas meal, families often gather around their gifts and engage in the fun ritual of unwrapping presents.

Like many Western countries, Christmas in the UK is eagerly anticipated and filled with festive joy. Celebrations typically take place at home, where families come together to celebrate. Preparations for the holiday begin long in advance, with people sending Christmas cards and decorating their homes with evergreen trees and plants. The tradition of the Christmas tree, which originated in Germany, was brought to the UK by Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s husband, in the 1840s. Homes are decorated with wreaths, ivy, mistletoe, and evergreen branches, creating a festive atmosphere that feels like stepping into a winter wonderland.

Christmas in Russia is just as festive and magical as in many other countries, but with a unique cultural twist. Russian Christmas traditions are rich in customs, such as a three-day celebration, a 40-day period of fasting before Christmas, decorating with evergreen trees, dancing, and a 12-course feast. Christmas is one of the 12 major holidays in Russia, and historically, both the Orthodox and Catholic churches shared the same Christmas date. However, since 1582, most of Europe adopted the Gregorian calendar, while Russia continued to use the Julian calendar until the Soviet era. This difference means that Christmas in Russia is celebrated on January 7th, 13 days later than in Catholic countries.

When visiting Russia during Christmas, what can you expect to experience? Like in the UK, Russia does not traditionally use Christmas trees, but instead adorns homes with evergreen branches, symbolizing eternal life. The Christmas feast in Russia features 12 special dishes, each representing one of Christ’s 12 apostles. In Russia, Santa Claus, known as Grandfather Frost, wears a blue robe and is accompanied by a beautiful Snow Maiden to deliver gifts to children. One of the most iconic sights of Russian Christmas is St. Basil’s Cathedral, a dazzling symbol of the season. During the holidays, this church is decorated in spectacular fashion, complementing its dreamy, fairy-tale appearance and stealing the hearts of all who visit for the first time.

During Christmas, cities across the United States light up with festive decorations. One of the most famous displays is at Rockefeller Center in New York, where a massive Christmas tree stands alongside an ice skating rink during the holiday season. This is also a popular destination for tourists flying in to experience the stunning Christmas atmosphere. Americans celebrate Christmas in a variety of ways. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, homes and gardens are adorned with lights, Christmas trees, and other festive decorations. Families often host special meals featuring turkey and an array of seasonal dishes, with gifts exchanged among loved ones. Children typically receive a generous amount of presents from their parents and relatives. This tradition has contributed to the commercialization of Christmas, with many families spending a significant portion of their income on gifts and food.

Schools, churches, and communities host special events, such as neighborhood and shopping mall decorations, Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, and concerts. Numerous plays and Christmas carols are performed, and many groups prepare meals, accommodations, and charitable projects for the homeless or those in need. Government offices, organizations, businesses, and schools close, with minimal exceptions. Many people travel to visit family and friends, leading to congestion on highways and at airports. Public transportation systems operate on a limited schedule, and public life essentially comes to a halt. Christmas in the U.S. is symbolized by figures such as Jesus, the Nativity, the Three Kings, and, of course, Santa Claus, reindeer, and elves. Popular Christmas symbols in the U.S. include Christmas trees, decorations, fairy lights, candles, and presents. Christmas in America is truly a blend of religious observance and commercial celebration.

Japan is a country you can visit at any time, especially during Christmas, if you enjoy the cool, crisp air and the understated elegance of its culture and architecture. Mount Fuji, which remains snow-capped year-round, is one of Japan's iconic symbols. If you've never experienced the beauty, taste, and magic of pure white snow, Mount Fuji is the perfect place to visit at any time of year. At Mount Fuji, you can enjoy activities like skiing, building snowmen, strolling through snowy paths, and taking stunning photographs. The mountain also offers renowned ski resorts, luxurious resorts, and traditional Japanese homes ready to welcome you for a relaxing stay. For the Japanese, Mount Fuji is sacred, believed to protect and bring prosperity. Therefore, for both the Japanese and tourists worldwide, visiting Mount Fuji to see the snow is considered an incredibly fortunate experience.

Unlike in Western countries, Christmas in most Asian nations is not as festive since it's not a national holiday. However, in Japan, from the 23rd to the 25th of December, the holiday season is celebrated in full swing as the 23rd marks the Emperor's birthday, a national holiday that extends into Christmas. During this time, Christmas cakes made of light, sweet cream are a festive treat. Like many other countries, the Japanese also enjoy eating turkey during Christmas. If a family doesn't prepare their own turkey, they may gather at KFC to celebrate the holiday together. Santa Claus is referred to as 'Santa Kuroshu' in Japan, and according to local legend, he has a kind face with eyes in the back of his head to see and hear the wishes of children. During Christmas in Japan, you’ll likely hear Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 played everywhere, as it’s their own traditional Christmas song.

Christmas is one of the major holidays in Singapore, especially for those who follow the Christian faith. During this time, the entire island city is adorned with dazzling lights and massive, beautiful Christmas trees. It is also a time for the locals to indulge in festive feasts, engage in various activities, and enjoy the shopping frenzy of discount season. Visiting Singapore during Christmas will immerse you in a lively, vibrant atmosphere and provide countless unique and memorable experiences. One must-visit Christmas spot in Singapore is Marina Bay, where an annual fireworks display lights up the sky to welcome the new year, along with community art performances. The area boasts a spacious, open environment with stunning views, and you can easily enjoy the enchanting beauty of Singapore simply by sitting by the shimmering waters.

When in Singapore during Christmas, you will be swept up in the lively ambiance of the city streets, which glow with festive lights at night. During this time, Christmas markets pop up along Victoria Street, Orchard Road, and, of course, the Santa's House, where visitors can take pictures and shop for souvenirs. Traditional Christmas dishes in Singapore include chili crab and frog porridge, prepared with flavors and presentations that capture the essence of the holiday season. Additionally, you can attend special events on Christmas Eve, such as circus performances and music festivals. Christmas remains a special occasion for many Christians in Singapore, but it is celebrated with joy by people of all backgrounds, who participate in fun activities like artificial snow, Santa Claus appearances, and, of course, exchanging gifts. With the multicultural makeup of Singapore, holiday traditions blend harmoniously, with local flavors like ginger and chili added to dishes like turkey, giving them an exciting Asian twist.

Hong Kong during Christmas is a paradise for theme park lovers. The city's Christmas symbol, a 15-meter-tall dandelion flower monument with floating seeds, represents wishes and hopes for the upcoming year. Residents and visitors alike can make their wishes at the Statue Square. Another top spot is Disneyland Park, which transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the festive season. The centerpiece of this transformation is the Winterfest celebration, which makes Hong Kong feel like a snowy northern fairytale city. One of the main attractions is the Ice Wonderland skating rink in Tsim Sha Tsui, where visitors can skate amid dazzling lights and immersive snow effects.

During Christmas, Hong Kong Disneyland shines brightly with colorful decorations, spectacular performances, and rides that captivate both children and adults alike. For theme park enthusiasts, especially those visiting with young kids, a trip to Disneyland is a must for an unforgettable fairytale experience. Another signature of Hong Kong is its towering skyscrapers, which are illuminated with stunning light displays. Don't miss the Hong Kong Symphony of Lights, a nightly show at Victoria Harbour that combines lights and music in a spectacular performance. Rather than a typical water light show, this event features LED lights syncing to music across dozens of high-rise buildings. It’s an ever-changing, free performance that takes place at 8 PM every night, transforming the city into a dazzling spectacle.