Paris Joins Brussels, Strasbourg, Chicago, New York City in the New List of Stressful Christmas Destinations, New Research is Here Before Your Holiday Planning

Published on December 17, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Paris joins Brussels, Strasbourg, Chicago, and New York City in the new list of stressful Christmas destinations for 2025. According to the latest research, Paris has officially earned the top spot for being the most anxiety-inducing city to visit during the holidays. With overcrowding, high prices, and unpredictable weather, Paris becomes a holiday stress magnet.

Alongside Paris, cities like Brussels, Strasbourg, Chicago, and New York City also make the list, each with their own unique set of challenges for holiday travelers. Whether it’s the crowds in Paris, the cold in Chicago, or the high hotel prices in Strasbourg, this research highlights exactly why these destinations should be carefully considered before you start planning your festive getaway.

With millions flocking to these popular cities, the holidays can quickly turn from joy to frustration. Read on to find out why Paris, Brussels, Strasbourg, Chicago, and New York City top the list and how to plan smarter this Christmas.

Paris Tops the 2025 List of Stressful Christmas Destinations: 8.3 Million Visitors and Overcrowding Stress

Are you dreaming of a peaceful Christmas getaway in Europe? Think again! Paris, the City of Lights, has officially topped the list as the most stressful Christmas destination of 2025. With over 8.3 million visitors flocking to the French capital this December, it’s no wonder the crowds, skyrocketing prices, and unpredictable weather are enough to make even the most seasoned traveler feel frazzled. The latest study by MyCross, examining over 30 global holiday hotspots, highlights Paris as the ultimate stress-inducing destination during the Christmas season.

Paris: The Crowded Nightmare of Christmas

Paris is a holiday magnet, pulling millions of visitors, yet the sheer volume of tourists is enough to turn your festive dream into a nightmare. According to MyCross’s research, the city attracts a staggering 8.3 million visitors during the holiday season, making it the most crowded Christmas destination in the world. With 78,812 tourists per km², it’s easy to see why navigating the famous sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre feels like wading through a sea of people. Whether you’re visiting the iconic Christmas markets, wandering the glittering Champs-Élysées, or simply trying to find a quiet corner in a café, the experience can quickly turn into a test of patience.

The High Cost of Christmas in Paris

When it comes to accommodation, Paris doesn’t disappoint — in terms of high prices. The average nightly rate for hotels during the Christmas period is a whopping $70.8. With only 137 hotels available, it’s not just the crowds that are stressful; finding a place to rest your weary head can also be a challenge. Imagine spending hours searching for a bed after a long day of sightseeing, only to find that prices have shot up. In this chaotic mix, the already hefty price tags for flights and souvenirs will make your holiday budget feel tight.

Bad Weather, Bad Vibes: Paris’s Winter Chill

Aside from the crowds and high prices, winter in Paris isn’t exactly a postcard-perfect scene. Temperatures often hover around 9.9°C, with a fair share of rain and unpredictable weather. While you may have hoped for a crisp, wintery atmosphere, you’re more likely to encounter damp, chilly days that make outdoor excursions feel uncomfortable. This can result in travel delays, particularly for tourists trying to catch a glimpse of the festive lights or make it to a coveted Christmas dinner. The combination of poor weather, delayed transportation, and overcrowded conditions leads to one thing: stress!

Brussels: The Cold, Crowded Alternative

Just a stone’s throw away from Paris lies Brussels, which takes second place as the most stressful holiday destination. While Brussels may not be as crowded as Paris, the chilly temperatures—averaging around 9°C in December—add an extra layer of stress. The city also suffers from expensive hotels, averaging $73 per night, and with only 364 accommodations available, finding a place to stay becomes a battle. A combination of high costs and limited space means Brussels doesn’t offer much of a break from the stress you’d find in Paris. However, its famous Christmas markets and iconic Grand Place are undeniably charming—if you can manage to brave the crowds!

Strasbourg: The Hotel Price Hike

While Paris and Brussels steal the spotlight for overcrowding, Strasbourg comes in third as the most stressful Christmas destination. Known for its famous Christmas markets, Strasbourg sees a surge of 3.4 million tourists each holiday season. However, hotel costs in the city are astronomical, with the average price per night reaching almost $400. The limited number of hotels—only 137 options—adds further stress, making it a city where early bookings are crucial. If you haven’t already booked your stay, you may find yourself scrambling to secure a place, only to face outrageous prices and availability issues.

Chicago: The Snowy, Stressful Christmas Destination

When you think of the perfect Christmas destination, Chicago might not immediately come to mind. However, it ranks fourth in the stress score, with 8.1 million visitors expected to visit the Windy City during the holidays. While Chicago boasts beautiful winter landscapes and festive attractions, the extreme cold temperatures—often dropping to 4°C—can be overwhelming for many travelers. Combine this with frequent snowstorms, and you have a recipe for travel delays and inconvenient weather conditions. With hotel prices averaging $82 per night and expensive meals at around $43, Chicago is one destination where you’ll have to bundle up and prepare for costly meals, making it a winter wonderland full of frustration.

New York City: The High Price of Holiday Magic

The Big Apple rounds out the top five most stressful Christmas destinations, with a whopping 12.5 million visitors expected to pack the city during the holiday season. The city’s energy is electric with its holiday windows, ice skating rinks, and the iconic Rockefeller Christmas tree. But the crowds can be overwhelming. To make matters worse, hotel rates average a staggering $253 per night, and meals cost up to $46 per person. New York’s safety index also raises concerns for travelers, and despite its festive atmosphere, the overwhelming crowds, high costs, and cold temperatures make it one of the most stressful Christmas destinations.

Dublin: A Festive Destination Full of Crowds and Costs

Dublin ranks sixth on the list, offering a cozy Irish charm but also an overload of visitors. The city sees over 1.5 million tourists during Christmas, and with accommodation prices averaging $95.7, it’s easy to see why staying in Dublin can feel like an expensive ordeal. The safety index of 46 also raises concerns, as crowded pubs and streets make it harder to relax and enjoy the holiday festivities. The cold temperatures—around 9.4°C—also leave visitors bundled up and uncomfortable, adding more stress to their holiday plans.

Other Stressful Christmas Destinations

Several other cities rank high on the stress score list for Christmas. Manchester, with its busy streets and cold weather, comes in at seventh place, while London ranks eighth. These cities, like Paris, are full of tourists, high prices, and unpredictable weather. However, each still offers some unique experiences and festive charm. The cold, snowy conditions in Rovaniemi, the self-proclaimed “official hometown of Santa Claus,” add an extra layer of stress. Despite this, the town’s charm and appeal to holidaymakers remain undeniable, making it an interesting (albeit stressful) destination.

Quebec: The Snowy Stress Destination

Finally, Quebec, known for its frosty temperatures averaging -13°C, rounds out the top 10 most stressful Christmas destinations. While the cold can add to the charm of its Christmas markets and festive lights, it also makes travel more difficult. With only 77 hotels available and high hotel rates at $227 per night, finding accommodation can add stress to the experience.

The Hidden Gems of Paris: Exploring the Offbeat and Lesser-Known Destinations

Paris, often synonymous with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, is a city that holds much more beneath the surface. While the major tourist attractions draw millions of visitors each year, those who venture off the beaten path will find a Paris that is far more intimate, authentic, and surprisingly serene. From hidden gardens to abandoned railways transformed into green spaces, Paris offers a wealth of lesser-known treasures that are waiting to be explored. Whether you’re seeking quiet corners for reflection or vibrant local neighbourhoods brimming with charm, Paris’s offbeat destinations offer a refreshing escape from the crowds.

Canal Saint-Martin: The Heartbeat of Parisian Local Life

Nestled in the 10th arrondissement, Canal Saint-Martin offers a glimpse of Paris that feels far removed from the hustle and bustle of the more famous sights. This picturesque canal, lined with charming cafés and boutique shops, has become a popular hangout for Parisians looking to unwind. The atmosphere here is more relaxed, and a stroll along the canal is an invitation to experience the city through the eyes of its locals.

As you wander along the water’s edge, you’ll encounter quirky bridges, quaint bistros, and tree-lined walkways, all framed by the sound of the canal’s gentle flow. The area comes alive in the evenings, with locals enjoying a drink on the canal banks or dining at one of the many hip eateries that line the water. It’s Paris’s perfect hidden spot for a serene afternoon or an evening filled with local flavour.

La Petite Ceinture: Paris’s Green Urban Escape

For those who love nature mixed with a touch of history, La Petite Ceinture offers a unique opportunity to explore a long-forgotten railway line. Once a major transportation route, the Petite Ceinture fell into disuse and has since been rewilded, transforming into a secret oasis hidden within the city’s urban sprawl.

Parts of the railway now feature walking paths, wildflower-filled gardens, and community projects that breathe new life into this once-industrial space. It’s a favourite among local Parisians who seek respite from the crowds. Sections of the trail offer visitors the chance to discover hidden gardens, small art installations, and even urban farms that give a new perspective on the relationship between nature and city life. Whether you walk its length or simply explore a section, La Petite Ceinture is a refreshing reminder of how green spaces can thrive in urban environments.

Butte-aux-Cailles: Paris’s Bohemian Village

In the 13th arrondissement, Butte-aux-Cailles offers a welcome contrast to the glamour of central Paris. Known for its village-like charm, this quiet neighbourhood feels like a step back in time, with cobblestone streets, independent cafés, and vibrant street art. While it’s a beloved spot for locals, Butte-aux-Cailles remains largely off the tourist radar, offering an authentic Parisian experience without the crowds.

Wander through the neighbourhood, and you’ll encounter striking murals, small boutiques, and eateries serving everything from traditional French pastries to international fare. Butte-aux-Cailles is also famous for its historic public swimming pool, Piscine de la Butte-aux-Cailles, a beautiful art-deco building that adds to the district’s unique charm. If you’re looking for a place to soak up Parisian life at a slower pace, this hidden gem is the perfect escape.

Jardin des Grands Explorateurs: A Quiet Green Oasis

Hidden in the 7th arrondissement near the Musée Quai Branly, Jardin des Grands Explorateurs is a peaceful green space that’s often overlooked by the typical tourist. This lovely garden, dedicated to the explorers of the world, offers a serene environment perfect for quiet reflection or a leisurely stroll. Surrounded by trees and elegant statues, the garden is a peaceful retreat from the crowds of more famous Parisian parks.

The atmosphere here is tranquil, with few visitors making it an ideal location for a moment of respite in the heart of the city. Whether you’re sitting on one of the benches, reading a book, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding area, the Jardin des Grands Explorateurs provides an authentic, unhurried Parisian experience.

La Promenade Plantée: Paris’s Elevated Garden Walk

Before New York’s famous High Line, there was La Promenade Plantée, Paris’s own elevated green space built on an old railway viaduct. Stretching over 4.5 kilometres, this tree-lined walkway offers stunning views of the city’s rooftops and quieter areas that are perfect for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the landscape.

The promenade is lined with lush plants, flowers, and trees that change with the seasons, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience Paris in a different light. As you walk along this elevated trail, you’ll pass through charming gardens, quiet courtyards, and eventually into the Bois de Vincennes, one of the city’s largest parks. Whether you’re walking, running, or just taking in the views, La Promenade Plantée is an offbeat Parisian experience that many visitors miss, but should absolutely seek out.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: A Dramatic Urban Park

Nestled in the northeast of Paris, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a dramatic, sprawling park that feels like a secret escape. With steep hills, a man-made lake, waterfalls, and a Roman-style temple perched atop a rocky outcrop, the park offers a landscape that’s as wild and untamed as Paris gets. Despite being one of the largest parks in the city, it remains somewhat of an insider secret, with fewer tourists venturing to its lush grounds.

The park is perfect for those who enjoy nature, photography, or simply wandering through scenic, less-developed areas of the city. You’ll find locals picnicking by the lake, enjoying the panoramic views from the temple, or strolling along its winding paths. With its dramatic features and calm, open spaces, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers a much-needed contrast to the urban pace of central Paris.

Musée de l’Orangerie: A Quiet Art Retreat

For those seeking art in a quieter setting, the Musée de l’Orangerie is a true Parisian hidden gem. Located in the Tuileries Gardens, this intimate museum houses Monet’s famous Water Lilies murals, alongside works by Cézanne, Renoir, and Picasso. While the Louvre often draws massive crowds, the Orangerie offers a peaceful, contemplative art experience without the overwhelming number of visitors.

The museum’s serene atmosphere and carefully curated exhibitions provide an opportunity to enjoy art at a slower pace. Whether you’re a fan of Impressionist masterpieces or simply want to enjoy an afternoon surrounded by beauty, Musée de l’Orangerie is one of Paris’s most understated treasures.

The Secret Passages of Paris: Hidden Historic Corners

Paris is home to many secret passages that are tucked away behind grand boulevards and often missed by tourists. These glass-roofed arcades were once bustling commercial hubs, and many still feature elegant boutiques, cafés, and antique shops. The Passage des Panoramas, one of the oldest covered passages in Paris, is a beautiful example of this hidden world, offering a glimpse into the city’s past.

As you wander through these passages, you’ll discover a slower-paced Paris that’s perfect for those who prefer to explore beyond the main streets. These hidden corridors are an architectural marvel, combining Paris’s rich history with a sense of old-world charm.

Crypts and Catacombs: Paris’s Macabre Secrets

For those with a fascination for history and the unusual, Paris’s crypts and catacombs provide a glimpse into the city’s macabre past. While the famous Catacombs of Paris draw crowds, lesser-known sites like the Crypt of Saint-Denis and the Crypt of the Pantheon offer a quieter, yet equally fascinating, alternative.

These underground spaces are steeped in history, holding the remains of past kings, queens, and revolutionaries. Visiting these eerie sites provides a unique perspective on Paris’s long and storied history—one that often goes unnoticed by the typical tourist.

The Real Paris Awaits

While the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame are undeniably spectacular, there’s so much more to Paris than meets the eye. The city’s offbeat destinations offer a different side of the French capital, filled with local charm, tranquil spaces, and hidden gems that provide a more intimate and authentic experience. Whether it’s walking along the Canal Saint-Martin, exploring the abandoned railways of La Petite Ceinture, or discovering secret garden oases, Paris has much more to offer than its usual tourist attractions. For those looking to truly experience the spirit of the city, the offbeat Paris is waiting to be explored.

What We Can Learn From These Stressful Destinations

While Paris, Brussels, Strasbourg, Chicago, and other major cities top the list as the most stressful holiday destinations, it’s important to note that holiday travel doesn’t have to be stressful. Smaller cities and towns often offer the same festive atmosphere with fewer crowds and lower costs. Instead of battling the chaos of these major tourist hubs, consider exploring lesser-known destinations where you can experience a more peaceful, enjoyable Christmas.