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Whether you’re planning your first romantic getaway, deciding on where to take the whole family, or talking about a trip with friends the Christmas season is a time for fulfilling childhood dreams of frolicking in powdery snow, or nestling by a fire surrounded with the warming smells of hot cocoa in the air. For those who would like some inspiration on where to go and what to do when you get there, here is our roundup of special Christmas holiday destinations that you may not have considered before!
Santa Claus Village, Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi – Finland
Situated in Rovaniemi the “official hometown of Santa Claus” in Finland’s Lapland region, the Santa Claus Village is the ultimate destination for a magical white Christmas. Structured like a small community, guests can choose to stay in a charming on-site cabin or opt for accommodation elsewhere in beautiful Rovaniemi. Not only does this location boast inches of pristine, fluffy snow but visitors during the long winter months are also treated to the glorious northern lights that are iconic of the Arctic Circle.
Copenhagen, Denmark
The homeland of fairy tale author Hans Christian Andersen, Denmark’s charming capital has that old-school charm that makes it a magical destination for Christmas. This quaint city comes alive with the festive spirit, from fairy-light adorned trees and medieval streets to a themed night market in Copenhagen’s world-renowned Tivoli Gardens. This winter wonderland has something for people of all ages with stalls selling warm drinks, food, leather goods, decorations, deli items, and crafts – great for last minute Christmas shopping.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is more of an adult’s destination for Christmas with its rich classical music history, architecture, medieval taverns and wineries, opera balls, and intellectual coffee house culture. The Austrian capital also has its flagship night Christmas village markets on Maria-Theresien-Platz, which boast architecturally designed installations, live street music, and illuminated ice pavilions. Visitors can also try the ever-popular ice-skating at the Weiner Konzerthaus in the grounds of the majestic Vienna Concert Hall.
Montreal, Canada
In a leap over the Atlantic, the Québécoise capital has some of the liveliest Christmas festivities! After all, Canadians are known for their love of the outdoors. Every year the city streets come to life with Christmas parades and fireworks displays, ice-skating rinks, and festivals for the entire family. Considered by locals as a giant outdoor Christmas party, the ‘Parc des Compagnons’ Christmas in the Park festival has free concerts, food stalls, and cosy bonfires to keep you entertained up until Christmas Eve. Montreal also has a great food culture due to French and Jewish influences, making this city a fantastic gastronomic hub for travellers with an appetite.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
In a step away from the traditional Christmas images of cold snow and warm fireplaces we conclude our round up of top Christmas destinations with an exotic location. Known for its vibrant culture, Rio de Janeiro takes the last spot on our list. In this predominantly Catholic country, where extravagant religious ceremonies such as Holy Week Carnival are world renowned, you know you’re going to have a unique experience. Don that all-white linen outfit and celebrate Christmas to the classic tunes of bossa nova in one of Rio’s many bars, caipirinha in hand.
To plan your White Christmas holiday speak to your personal travel manager or find one here.
We at Travel Managers Australia recognise the traditional owners of the country where we live and work. We recognise and celebrate the diversity of Indigenous people and their enduring cultures and connections to the land and waters of New South Wales.
