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 to 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 places you should think about this year:
1. 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 is 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 won’t be a problem.
And as you walk around, sip and munch on the two French specialties during the 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!
2. 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 your 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) Sicily is a perfect destination thanks to the option of choosing one of the gorgeous villas in Sicily available to rent offering groups plenty of room, and your very own living room to open your presents together. Buon Natale!
3. 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. And if you’re still not too 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 your day at the markets, or in the snow. Fröhliche Weihnachten!
4. Amsterdam, Holland
Beautiful and fun in 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. Indeed Christmas is done quite differently in Holland, with the large celebration coming on the 6th of December.
While you’re there you have the treat of experiencing Amsterdam’s beautiful Light festival, which is absolutely unique and beautiful! And if you’re still thinking about it, what might convince you is knowing that you can actually ice skate on Amsterdam’s frozen canals. One of the main attractions in Amsterdam, the canals are even better during the winter thanks to their freezing over and allowing everybody to have fun on them. 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. Christmas 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 one we grow up!