Christmas is a magical time where everything seems possible – even a family holiday in another country! Some people search for a magical location and some just want a bit of a warmer climate or to escape somewhere new and exciting.
There are lots of beautiful destinations in Europe and further afield where you can enjoy an amazing Christmas break, so if you’re unsure where to start when choosing your destination, here are 4 you should definitely consider…
Paris, France
Often when talking about Christmas holiday destinations, Paris is at the top of the list of must see places. The Tour Eiffel sparkles like no other and makes for quite the magical photo for your Christmas holiday cards.
Take a walk down Avenue de Champs-Elysee and marvel at the long parade of Christmas-themed booths and Christmas markets where finding souvenirs for your family back home will be easy. As you walk around, sip and munch on the two French specialties during Christmas time; the “vin chaud” (“mulled wine” to us) and Raclette, which is a bowl of steamed potatoes covered in cheese with bits of meat in the mix, too – a perfect combination! Joyeux Noël!
Sicily, Italy
If you’re familiar with Italy, you’ll probably know that every Italian destination is always a good choice. In this case, Sicily is definitely in the top 3 holiday spots you should consider for Christmas.
Where else can you ski on a volcano, experience one of the oldest opera houses in Europe, and visit the wonders of the Baroque influence on architecture? Only in Sicily, of course!
What’s more, if you have a big family and you’re looking to spend the holidays with everybody (including grandparents, cousins, or whoever you want to spend the day with) it’s a perfect destination thanks to the gorgeous villas available to rent in Sicily offering groups plenty of room, as well as your very own living room to open your presents together. Buon Natale!
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria
If you aren’t familiar with Salzburg, you should know that Christmas is one of the times the city shines the most. With all of its Christmas markets flooding the city and the neighbouring towns, it is quite a sight to see.
And, if you aren’t looking to spend your whole Christmas holiday at the Christmas markets – which you should definitely visit regardless – why not try out some of the winter sports in Austria? In fact, not only would you be spending your holiday in the classic winter wonderland setting, but you’d be skiing down some of the best slopes in Europe.
If you’re still not convinced about Austria as a destination, don’t forget that the delicious apple strudel dessert is Austrian; the perfect dish to come home to after you have spent a day at the markets or in the snow. Fröhliche Weihnachten!
Amsterdam, Holland
Beautiful and fun-filled throughout every season, Amsterdam at Christmas time is a must-see. With its many cosy cafes, sparkling lights by the canals and delicious menus, you will get to experience the Dutch way of hosting Christmas.
In fact, Christmas is done quite differently in Holland, with the large celebration coming on the December 6. While you’re there you have the treat of experiencing Amsterdam’s beautiful Light festival, which is absolutely unique and beautiful! And, you can actually ice skate on Amsterdam’s frozen canals – one of the city’s main attractions. Vrolijk kerstfeest!
Now all you have to do is choose a destination and go for it! Christmases abroad are always special and guarantee some of the best memories. The holiday season at home can be magical, but going away somewhere – even if it’s not on the actual day itself – can be amazing, memorable and help reignite that Christmassy feeling many of us lose once we grow up!
By Emily Jones