New York City Joins Cancun, Rio de Janeiro, St. Lucia, Quebec City, Jackson Hole, Bethlehem in Supercharging Winter Travel in US, Brazil, Canada and Mexico During Christmas

Published on November 30, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

New York City joins the ranks of exciting destinations like Cancun, Rio de Janeiro, St. Lucia, Quebec City, Jackson Hole, and Bethlehem in supercharging winter travel in US, Brazil, Mexico, Canada during Christmas. These incredible locations are redefining the holiday season, offering travelers a range of experiences from snowy escapes to warm-weather getaways. Whether you’re dreaming of New York City’s iconic winter wonderland or the sun-kissed beaches of St. Lucia, Christmas travel has never been more diverse. Cancun, Rio de Janeiro, Quebec City, and Jackson Hole also shine, each bringing unique holiday magic. Discover why New York City and these top destinations make this year’s Christmas unforgettable.

As the holiday season draws near, it’s time to start planning where to celebrate Christmas. Whether you’re looking to embrace traditional festivities with snowy backdrops or seeking a tropical retreat to escape the winter chill, 2025 offers an incredible array of travel destinations perfect for celebrating Christmas in style. TTW (Travel and Tour World) has compiled a list of the Top 30 Christmas Destinations for 2025, covering everything from classic European Christmas markets to sun-drenched paradises where the season is celebrated in a unique way. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best places to spend Christmas in 2025.

1. New York City: Christmas in the Big Apple

At the top of TTW’s list is New York City, the epitome of Christmas magic. From the famous Rockefeller Center tree to the festive window displays on Fifth Avenue, New York transforms into a holiday haven every December. Skating at the Rockefeller rink, attending Broadway shows, and strolling through light-adorned streets make NYC a dream destination for those wanting to experience Christmas like never before. Whether you’re a fan of holiday shopping or indulging in festive treats, New York offers something for everyone during the Christmas season.

2. Classic European Christmas: Magical Cities and Timeless Traditions

Europe has long been known for its quintessential Christmas celebrations, with historic cities offering stunning Christmas markets, sparkling lights, and cozy holiday vibes. This year, some of the continent’s most beloved destinations make the list for the perfect holiday escape:

• Budapest boasts a stunning holiday atmosphere, with traditional Christmas markets and magnificent lights.
• London, with its world-famous Christmas lights and iconic attractions like Winter Wonderland, offers the perfect mix of festive charm.
• Strasbourg in France, known as the “Capital of Christmas,” dazzles with its 450-year-old Christmas market.
• Vienna, with its grand imperial history, is known for its beautiful Christmas markets and holiday concerts, offering a truly royal festive experience.
• Edinburgh in Scotland offers a magical experience with its charming Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and winter festivals.

If you’re looking for something extra special, head to Lapland in Finland – the official home of Santa Claus. This Arctic wonderland offers the chance to meet Santa, go on reindeer rides, and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the North Pole.

In addition to these snowy destinations, other European cities like Rome, Prague, and Venice offer a mix of sacred traditions, nativity scenes, and candlelit streets, giving visitors a uniquely European Christmas experience.

3. Sun-Soaked Christmas Getaways: Tropical Escapes for the Holidays

Not everyone is looking for a white Christmas – and for those who prefer sun over snow, TTW offers some exceptional tropical destinations for the holiday season.

• Cancun, Mexico, is a beach lover’s paradise where you can enjoy the Christmas spirit while soaking up the sun. With sparkling coastlines, lively Christmas markets, and festive events, Cancun offers the ultimate tropical holiday experience.
• Cape Town, South Africa, boasts a stunning setting with Table Mountain as its backdrop, offering holidaymakers the perfect blend of festive charm and natural beauty.
• St. Lucia in the Caribbean presents an idyllic escape with its beautiful beaches and unique blend of holiday celebrations, perfect for those who prefer a laid-back, sunny Christmas.
• Rio de Janeiro in Brazil brings a vibrant, beach-side holiday atmosphere where Christmas is celebrated with fireworks, beach parties, and outdoor concerts.

For those seeking the ultimate mix of sunshine and celebration, these destinations promise an unforgettable Christmas experience.

4. North America’s Best Christmas Destinations: Snow, Ski, and Festive Vibes

North America has an abundance of destinations that offer something for every type of traveler. From snowy escapes to cozy village settings, these North American spots will have you in the holiday spirit:

• Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is a winter wonderland for skiers and adventurers. With breathtaking mountain views and serene, snow-covered landscapes, it’s a prime destination for those seeking a snowy Christmas escape.
• Quebec City, Canada, offers a charming European-style village vibe, complete with cobblestone streets, twinkling lights, and festive holiday markets.
• Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, also known as “Christmas City,” provides an old-world charm with its stunning Christmas decorations and traditional holiday events.

These destinations offer a magical and authentic Christmas experience, filled with cozy streets, festive markets, and all the classic elements that make the holiday season so special.

5. Dubai: The Luxurious Christmas Experience in the Desert

For those who prefer a lavish holiday experience, Dubai offers a glamorous take on Christmas. The city goes all out with dazzling holiday decorations, luxury shopping festivals, and extravagant celebrations. Whether you’re dining at five-star restaurants, shopping in world-renowned malls, or enjoying festive events in the lap of luxury, Dubai delivers a unique and over-the-top Christmas experience. On New Year’s Eve, Dubai’s fireworks show at the Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building – is an event like no other, making it a bucket-list destination for those seeking a grand celebration.

6. Asia’s Christmas Charm: Modern Light Displays and Unique Festivities

Asia has recently become an increasingly popular destination for Christmas travelers, offering a blend of modern light displays, pop culture fun, and festive traditions.

• Tokyo, Japan, is one of the most dazzling Christmas destinations in Asia, featuring large-scale light displays and vibrant Christmas events. Tokyo blends futuristic charm with traditional holiday cheer, making it an exciting place to visit during the holiday season.
• Singapore is also a Christmas favorite, offering a unique multicultural holiday celebration. The city’s streets light up with festive displays, and there are Christmas events happening in every corner, from luxury shopping malls to cultural districts.

For those seeking a different take on Christmas, these Asian cities provide a unique combination of festive fun and cultural excitement.

7. The Ultimate Christmas Getaway: Something for Every Traveler

The Top 30 Christmas Destinations for 2025 truly offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re yearning for a classic Christmas experience with snowy streets and bustling holiday markets, or you want to escape to a sun-filled paradise, there are countless options for creating lasting memories during the holiday season.

For some, the magic of New York City, Vienna, or Prague is irresistible, while others may prefer the warmth of destinations like Cancun, Cape Town, or Rio de Janeiro. No matter where you choose to celebrate, each of these destinations promises a unique and unforgettable Christmas experience. Whether you’re in search of nostalgia, adventure, or a relaxing beach escape, this year’s list has the perfect place for you.

Conclusion: Celebrate the Holidays Your Way

From snowy cities with charming markets and light displays to exotic beach destinations, TTW’s Top 30 Christmas Destinations for 2025 proves that there’s no one-size-fits-all holiday experience. Whether you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland or a tropical escape, the world has something magical to offer this Christmas. Plan your holiday getaway now and prepare to make unforgettable memories wherever you choose to go.

Happy holidays and safe travels!