London Joins Amsterdam, Nuremberg, Zagreb, Strasbourg, Prague, Budapest, Quebec City, Copenhagen and Rome as the Ultimate Holiday Travel Destinations for Christmas Tours in 2025

Published on December 7, 2025

As the holiday season draws near, travelers across the globe are seeking the perfect destinations to immerse themselves in the festive magic of Christmas. In 2025, London joins an elite group of iconic cities—Amsterdam, Nuremberg, Zagreb, Strasbourg, Prague, Budapest, Quebec City, Copenhagen, and Rome—recognized as the ultimate holiday travel hotspots for Christmas tours. These cities each offer their own unique festive charm, from London’s spectacular Christmas markets and historic royal palace tours to Nuremberg’s renowned Christkindlesmarkt, a tradition that has stood the test of time. Whether it’s the cozy holiday atmosphere in Zagreb or the sparkling lights dancing on the canals of Amsterdam, these destinations promise an unforgettable Christmas experience. With a wide range of activities including ice skating, festive concerts, and centuries-old traditions, they offer the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern holiday joy for travelers in 2025.

When the holiday season arrives, cities around the world light up with festive cheer, but few manage to capture the true magic of Christmas like these destinations. London, in particular, has earned its place at the top as the best city in the world for Christmas tours. Let’s take a closer look at why these cities offer the ultimate holiday experience.

London: The Undisputed King of Christmas Tours

London has long been renowned for its festive allure during the holidays, and it’s easy to see why. Ranked the top city for Christmas tours globally, London offers an unparalleled variety of experiences that make it an extraordinary destination for the holiday season. Whether you’re wandering through Victorian-style markets with twinkling lights, skating under the stars on iconic ice rinks, or indulging in Christmas shopping along Oxford Street, the city never fails to dazzle.

The magic begins with its decorated Christmas markets, such as the Southbank Centre Winter Market and the Christmas by the River in London Bridge, where vendors offer everything from mulled wine to handcrafted gifts. Beyond that, London’s historic venues like Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace open their doors for behind-the-scenes tours, showcasing how the British monarchy celebrates Christmas in style. Free festive events, from concerts in the Royal Albert Hall to carol singing in Trafalgar Square, make the city even more inviting.

Amsterdam: A Glimpse of Dutch Christmas Cheer

Just behind London on the list is Amsterdam, which ranks as the second-best city for Christmas tours globally. Known for its picturesque canals and charming architecture, Amsterdam takes on a special kind of allure during the holiday season. The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with its famous canals beautifully lit up with festive lights.

One of the best ways to experience Amsterdam’s holiday magic is through a boat cruise along its canals. These cruises provide an intimate view of the city’s twinkling lights, historical buildings, and festive decorations. The Dutch also celebrate Christmas with seasonal treats like oliebollen (fried dough balls) and traditional Dutch Christmas cookies, which are a must-try during a visit. Amsterdam’s Christmas markets, including the famous Ice Village in Museumplein, offer a wide range of gifts, local crafts, and delicious hot chocolate.

Nuremberg, Germany: A Timeless Christmas Market Tradition

Nuremberg in Germany is a city that could have been plucked straight out of a fairy tale. Known for its world-famous Christkindlesmarkt, Nuremberg ranks third on the list, and it’s easy to understand why. The market, which has been held annually since the 16th century, is one of the oldest and most beloved Christmas markets in Europe.

Visitors can expect to find rows upon rows of wooden stalls adorned with red and white canopies, offering everything from handcrafted wooden toys to traditional gingerbread cookies. The aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air, and visitors are often treated to live Christmas music. Nuremberg’s medieval architecture and snowy streets provide the perfect backdrop for a magical Christmas experience.

Zagreb, Croatia: Affordable Christmas Charm

Zagreb, Croatia, has quickly become one of the rising stars of European Christmas tourism. Ranked fourth overall, Zagreb is a hidden gem that offers affordable accommodations and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The city’s Christmas market, set in the medieval Old Town, features hundreds of stalls selling everything from local crafts to festive food and drinks.

What makes Zagreb stand out is the combination of affordability and charm. Tourists can enjoy an authentic Christmas experience without the high price tag often associated with other European cities. Visitors can explore the city’s festive lights, attend performances in the city’s theaters, or simply enjoy a cozy stroll through its picturesque streets. Zagreb’s festive spirit and budget-friendly options make it a must-see for Christmas lovers.

Strasbourg, France: A Classic European Christmas Destination

Rounding out the top five is Strasbourg, France, a city renowned for its traditional Alsatian Christmas markets. Strasbourg is often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas” in France, and it’s easy to see why. With its medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, and cobbled streets, the city takes on a fairy-tale quality during the Christmas season.

Strasbourg’s Christmas market, known as the Marché de Noël, dates back to 1570, making it one of the oldest in Europe. The market sprawls across multiple locations in the city, offering everything from handcrafted gifts to delicious French treats like foie gras and Alsatian pastries. Strasbourg also features breathtaking holiday displays, including its enormous Christmas tree in the Place Kléber, one of the most iconic in Europe.

Other European Christmas Tour Hotspots

While London, Amsterdam, Nuremberg, Zagreb, and Strasbourg dominate the top spots, Europe continues to lead the way with classic Christmas charm. Cities like Prague, Budapest, and Copenhagen are beloved for their stunning festive displays and old-world charm, while Rome provides a more traditional Italian holiday experience. These cities each offer their own unique Christmas magic, whether through bustling markets, enchanting light displays, or cultural traditions.

Prague, Czech Republic: A City of Legends and Christmas Magic

Prague is a city that looks like it’s been frozen in time, and during Christmas, it transforms into a magical winter landscape. The city’s medieval squares are adorned with stunning Christmas trees, and its famous Christmas markets offer traditional Czech treats like trdelník (a sweet pastry) and hot spiced wine. The backdrop of Prague’s fairytale architecture makes it a dream destination for those seeking a truly enchanting holiday experience.

Budapest, Hungary: A Beautiful Winter Escape

Budapest, Hungary, ranks seventh on the list for its elegant Christmas charm. The city’s Christmas markets, including the famous one at Vörösmarty Square, offer a stunning array of handmade gifts, delicious food, and festive entertainment. The grand architecture of Budapest, particularly the Hungarian Parliament and Buda Castle, serves as a dramatic backdrop to the city’s holiday festivities.

Copenhagen, Denmark: Hygge at Its Best

Copenhagen, Denmark, is the epitome of “hygge,” the Danish concept of coziness and contentment, and there’s no better time to experience it than during Christmas. The city’s Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, is transformed into a winter wonderland with dazzling lights, festive rides, and a charming Christmas market. The aroma of roasted almonds fills the air, and the city’s intimate Christmas markets make it one of the coziest destinations in Europe.

Quebec City: North America’s Christmas Jewel

Across the Atlantic, Quebec City in Canada makes a strong showing as one of North America’s top Christmas destinations. The city’s French-Canadian heritage is celebrated throughout the holiday season with traditional Christmas markets, festive decorations, and cultural performances. Quebec’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a beautiful and historic backdrop for its Christmas festivities. The Christmas markets, particularly the German-themed ones, offer a variety of handmade goods and local delicacies.

Conclusion

As we step into 2025, these cities remain at the top of the list for the best Christmas tours. Whether you’re drawn to the grand displays in London or the cozy charm of Zagreb, these destinations offer something special for every traveler. From traditional markets to unique local customs, these cities have perfected the art of celebrating the season. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the festive magic that only these top Christmas destinations can offer.