10 Best Places to Spend Christmas as a Nigerian

Planning your Christmas vacation? Here is the ultimate list of the best places to spend Christmas around the world, whether you dream of snow-covered European streets, sunny African beaches, or vibrant celebrations of holidays around the world. Christmas transforms cities, towns, and villages into festive wonderlands, filled with lights, music, seasonal markets, and unique cultural experiences.

From escaping the ordinary to creating unforgettable holiday memories, this guidebook shows Nigerians 10 varied festive getaways that cater to each kind of traveler: couples, solo travelers, and families alike. Each destination, ranging from classic European Christmas markets to tropical festivities, has something special to offer. The suggestions below will include practical travel tips, advice on accommodation options, and insights to make your Christmas vacation seamless and memorable.

Why Christmas is the Perfect Time to Travel

Christmas is more than a holiday, it’s an immersive experience. Festive events, decorations, and unique traditions bring cities around the world to life, making December an ideal travel month.

• Observe special traditions: candlelight services, carol concerts, and local Christmas customs that only happen in December.
• Visit Seasonal Markets: Find everything from European Christmas markets to tropical holiday bazaars, each offering local handicrafts, seasonal delicacies, and handcrafted gifts.
• Enjoy exclusive events: concerts, parades, cultural exhibitions, and light festivals.
• Create Lasting Memories: From skiing over snowy landscapes to celebrating on warm beaches, travel during Christmas is made up of lifetime experiences.

The festive atmosphere, cultural richness, and once-a-year events make Christmas a perfect season for travelers seeking both traditional and modern celebrations.

10 Best Places to Spend Christmas

1. Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria, merges imperial elegance with festive charm. The historic streets and palaces of the city turn into a winter wonderland. This is all centered around the Rathausplatz Christmas Market, which boasts 150 stalls selling handmade decorations, Austrian pastries such as Vanillekipferl, and mulled wine. Families ice-skate on rinks and enjoy a festive merry-go-round while couples stroll down candlelit alleys to the sounds of carolers.

Smaller markets at the Schönbrunn and Belvedere Palaces offer gourmet foods and artisan crafts. Vienna’s Advent concerts in churches and halls provide a cultural musical experience, reflecting the city’s rich heritage.

• Best Time & Weather: December has temperatures within the range of 0 to 5°C, sometimes with light snow. Visit between late November and December 24th for full market access.
• Accommodation Tips: Book a hotel either around Stephansplatz or Innere Stadt for convenience to get to the market. Boutique hotels sometimes offer special packages during this festive period.
• Practical Travel Tips: Vienna’s transportation is excellent. Consider the Vienna City Card, which provides unlimited travel and discounts to most museums.

Visiting Vienna offers a complete Christmas experience, from markets to concerts and traditional culinary delights.

2. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, called “the Capital of Christmas,” merges historic charm with the festive. Its old town is listed by UNESCO as having half-timbered houses and cobbled streets with twinkling lights. The city retains one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe: over 300 stalls on the Place Kléber represent everything from artisan crafts to regional foods, including Alsace bredele cookies and mulled wine, while street performances, live carols, and local choirs are never in short supply.

• Festive Highlights: Strasbourg’s markets include traditional wooden toys, hand-carved decorations, and seasonal culinary treats like roasted almonds, pretzels, and regional sausages. It offers a family-friendly atmosphere in the market, with storytelling sessions and an area for children. Guided wine tours or seasonal culinary workshops are available for adults.
• Weather & Best Time to Visit: Average temperatures are 0–5°C in December, with occasional snowfall. Late November through December 24th is the best period for markets, light displays, and festive events.
• Accommodation Tips: Stay in Petite France to be close to the canals, cobbled streets, and most of the small, charming Alsace-style guesthouses. Most hotels offer packages during holidays, including guided tours of the city or local experiences. Book as early as possible; the tourist season is usually fully booked well in advance.
• Practical Travel Insights: Strasbourg is compact and walkable. The city’s trams and buses provide easy access to Christmas markets and cultural attractions. Visitors can also take a short day trip to nearby German Christmas towns for a cross-border experience.

Throughout the year, Strasbourg brings together timeless European charm with a lively Christmas spirit, balancing perfectly between complete cultural immersion, festive markets, and gastronomic wonders.

3. Prague, Czech Republic

Gothic architecture, cobblestone streets, and the historic squares change Prague into a fairytale Christmas destination. Traditional Christmas markets will take place in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, while handcrafted ornaments, local food like trdelník, and spiced wine will be sold at the stalls. Carolers, classical music performances, and nativity displays bring the holiday season to life.

• Festive Highlights: Horse carriage rides, Advent concerts in historic churches, and visits to workshops of artisans are some of the delights awaiting visitors. Perhaps most picturesque of all is the Prague Castle Christmas market with its views and local crafts; musicians play in the street, and there are seasonal performances.
• Weather & Best Time to Go: Temps in December range from -1 to 4°C, with occasional light snow. Market season typically runs from late November to December 24th.
• Accommodation Tips: Hotels within walking distance to Old Town ensure easy access to markets and sights. Boutique stays in historic buildings provide a cozy, authentic experience. Book ahead of time for festive packages and proximity to main squares.
• Practical Travel Insights: Public transportation in Prague is very reliable. The Prague Card offers unlimited transport and discounts to attractions, perfect for tourists who want to see several places during the holiday season.

Prague presents a classic European Christmas experience featuring historic architecture, vibrant markets, and immersive traditions appealing to both families and solo travelers in equal measure.

4. New York City, USA

New York City offers a modern, high-energy Christmas with iconic sights and seasonal traditions. The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a must-see, along with ice skating at Bryant Park and holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue. Seasonal performances, including The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center, add cultural depth to the experience.

• Holiday Highlights: Enjoy holiday markets at Union Square and Columbus Circle, seasonal concerts at Carnegie Hall, and festive light displays in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn. Traditional American treats are on offer, from roasted chestnuts to hot chocolate.
• Weather & Best Time to Visit: Winter temperatures range from -3°C to 8°C, with occasional snow providing a traditional white Christmas atmosphere.
• Accommodation Tips: Midtown Manhattan is perfect for its proximity to the attractions. Book hotels well in advance as demand during this holiday season is awfully high.
• Practical Travel Insights: NYC’s subway system provides easy transportation to most attractions. Concert and ice skating rink tickets should be reserved in advance. Visitors may also want to take part in guided holiday walking tours to discover lesser-known seasonal treasures.

New York City fuses vibrant city energy with festive traditions, proving to be a lively destination for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

5. Lapland, Finland

It is the true Arctic Christmas destination. The official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi, offers reindeer sleigh rides, husky tours, snowmobile excursions, and the opportunity to see the Northern Lights. Families may visit Santa Claus Village, send postcards from his post office, and take part in festive workshops.

• Festive Highlights: Local markets featuring handicrafts, winter foods, and traditional Finnish souvenirs; ice hotels; snow igloos; and seasonal winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
• Weather & Best Time to Visit: In December, the temperature can be as low as -20°C, and the area is completely covered by snow. The period from mid-December up to early January is ideal for snow activities and Northern Lights viewing.
• Accommodation Tips: Glass igloos and lodges allow guests to watch the Northern Lights from the comfort of their rooms. Many resorts offer family packages, including guided tours and holiday events.
• Practical Travel Insights: Flights connect via Helsinki, followed by local buses or transfers. Visitors should pack in insulated clothing, boots, gloves, and thermal layers. Recommended guided tours in remote locations and outdoor activities.

It is hard to imagine many places in the world where one could experience such a magical snowy Christmas as Lapland combines adventure, family-friendly activities, and festive charm.

6. Sydney, Australia

Sydney presents a sun-kissed and tropical Christmas with a vibrant atmosphere in the outdoors. Bondi Beach becomes an active playground of festivity; the usual shore activities of beach picnics, barbecues, and surf competitions come alive in the company of locals and tourists alike, making it all so different yet equally charming. The city also stages Carols by Candlelight at the Domain, where several thousand assemble to sing along with live performances-a tradition now deeply ingrained within the fabric of Sydney’s Christmas culture.

• Festive Highlights: Sydney’s streets are decorated with lights, ornaments, and public installations; malls and department stores display intricate Christmas installations. Many resorts and hotels organize themed dinners, festive buffets, and activities appealing to families, hence allowing visitors to enjoy both the local culture and the magic of holidays. For a particularly Australian experience, tourists can visit Christmas markets that sell handicrafts, local wines, and seasonal delicacies, such as pavlova topped with fresh fruits.
• Weather & Best Time to Visit: December in Sydney is considered to be a summer month, with the temperature hovering between 20°C and 26°C. Sunshine and warm weather allow outdoor activities, including beach parties, harbor cruises, and open-air concerts.
• Accommodation Tips: Stay near Circular Quay, Bondi, or Darling Harbour for easy access to major festivities and beach activities. Most hotels offer Christmas packages with dining and event inclusions; it is thus recommended to book in advance.
• Practical Travel Insights: Sydney has an extensive public transportation system that includes trains, buses, and ferries. Visitors should plan for peak season, as both accommodations and attractions are in high demand during Christmas. Join guided tours or book events in advance to make this a memorable holiday.

Sydney offers a vibrant, sunny, culturally rich Christmas-a great destination for people who want to escape to warm weather with some Christmas magic and various holiday traditions.

7. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town melds sunshine, coastal beauty, and festive cheer in one memorable Christmas experience. In December, the city truly comes alive, with V&A Waterfront hosting markets, cultural events, and live performances. Christmas concerts, street parades, and food festivals give a real local feel, while families will enjoy beach picnics along Camps Bay or Clifton Beach. Seasonal treats feature roasted meats, local wines, and sweet pastries with an African spice.

• Festive Highlights: Christmas markets with handcrafted gifts, musical events at City Hall, and cultural ceremonies showcasing South African traditions. Hike Table Mountain or take a tour to the nearby winelands for other ways to celebrate in a festive yet relaxed environment.
• Weather & Best Time to Visit: The temperature is around 20°C to 28°C during December, which makes the days warm and dry, hence ideal for beach outings and sightseeing.
• Accommodation Tips: Stay in Camps Bay, Green Point, or the city center to balance your access to beaches and markets. Many resorts and boutique hotels offer festive packages, which may include guided tours or holiday-themed dinners. Reservations are highly recommended, well in advance, due to the high seasonal demand.
• Travel Tips: Renting a car is the best option to explore beaches, markets, and other attractions around. There is public transportation, but it may not reach all the festive sites properly. Bookings of popular events and local tours facilitate ground arrangements with ease.

Cape Town offers a sunny Christmas, combining scenic coastlines, festive markets, and cultural immersion for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking something different.

8. Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi is considered the official hometown of Santa Claus and provides a Christmas experience that melds magical winter scenery with family-oriented festivities. Visitors can meet Santa, explore the Santa Claus Village, and send postcards from Santa’s Post Office. The snow-covered forests house reindeer sleigh rides, husky sledding, and snowmobile adventures, while the Northern Lights quite often illuminate the night sky, adding an unforgettable visual spectacle.

• Festive Highlights: Rovaniemi features artisan markets with handicrafts, seasonal foods, and holiday souvenirs. Winter workshops provide immersive experiences such as candle making, cookie baking, and traditional Finnish crafts. Ice hotels and glass igloos let guests experience festive luxury in snowy surroundings.
• Weather & Best Time to Visit: Temperatures in December can go as low as -20°C. Mid-December to early January is best for snow activities and seeing the Northern Lights.
• Accommodation Tips: Glass igloos and lodges offer unique overnight experiences with panoramic views of snowy landscapes. Resorts often have packages for families or couples, which include guided tours, winter activities, and festive meals. Book in advance.
• Practical Travel Insights: Flights connect via Helsinki, with onward transport by bus or as part of a guided tour. You’ll need warm clothing, boots, gloves, and layered clothing. When exploring remote locations or winter sports, tours are recommended for safety and practicality.

Rovaniemi offers a fairy tale Christmas with snowy surroundings, traditional festivities, and amazing experiences for families and for those seeking adventure alike.

9. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik offers a Christmas both cozy and adventurous for travelers who seek out the charm of the city along with nature. The city’s streets shine with lights and festive decorations, while at Christmas markets, Icelandic handicrafts, local treats, and seasonal delicacies such as smoked lamb and gingerbread cookies are sold. Icelandic holiday traditions like the 13 Yule Lads add a unique cultural twist for visitors.

• Festive Highlights: Beyond city markets, travelers can explore geothermal baths, geysers, waterfalls, and nearby snowy landscapes. Seasonal concerts, Christmas parades, and nativity displays enhance Reykjavik’s festive atmosphere. Visitors can combine cultural experiences with excursions to see glaciers, black sand beaches, and other natural wonders, making Christmas both festive and adventurous.
• Weather & Best Time to Visit: From December, the temperatures range between -1°C to 4°C and usually include snow. Darkness in winter provides spectacular opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights.
• Accommodation Tips: Stay in downtown Reykjavik to get easy access to markets and cultural sites. Guesthouses and boutique hotels offer intimate and festive experiences. Book in advance for peak holiday travel.
• Practical Travel Insights: For trips out of town, consider car rentals or guided tours. Bring necessary warm clothing, waterproof jackets, and boots for outdoor excursions and winter trips.

Reykjavik combines festive traditions with Iceland’s beautiful natural surroundings, creating a Christmas that is at once cozy and an adventure for travelers. 

10. Bali, Indonesia 

Bali provides a tropical Christmas getaway for travelers seeking sun, sand, and seasonal celebrations. Resorts and hotels organize special Christmas dinners, themed parties, and cultural performances. Local markets display great artisan crafts, fruits of tropical origin, and festive Balinese decorations. Visitors can explore temples, rice terraces, and coastal towns while enjoying a relaxing, culturally rich holiday experience. 

• Festive Highlights: Many luxury resorts organize family-friendly Christmas events, including festive buffets, live music, and workshops on traditional Balinese crafts. Beach celebrations include evening lanterns, fire shows, and seaside dinners, offering a unique tropical twist on Christmas traditions. 
• Weather & Best Time to Visit: Temperatures during December range from 24°C to 30°C, though it is the wet season. Brief showers may come, but warm tropical days are still well-suited for sightseeing and outdoor activities. 
• Accommodation Tips: Stay in Seminyak or Ubud for a mix of beachfront luxury and cultural immersion. Resorts often provide Christmas packages that include festive meals, tours, and cultural activities. Book early due to high holiday demand. 
• Practical Travel Insights: Ngurah Rai International Airport connects Bali to major international hubs. Transfers from the airport, sightseeing tours, and resort-organized excursions ensure that the tourists face no inconvenience. 

Bali offers a warm, culturally vibrant Christmas experience, perfect for travelers wanting to combine holiday celebrations with relaxation and exploration.

How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas Destination

It all depends on the kind of holiday experience you want to have abroad for Christmas. While some travelers dream about snowy landscapes and charming European markets, others would prefer sunny beaches, cultural festivals, or quiet retreats amidst nature. Understanding yourself guarantees that you make a choice that will seem magical and memorable.

Snowy vs. Warm Weather Preferences

Imagine Christmas with snowflakes, fairy lights, and warm drinks in places like Vienna, Prague, Strasbourg, Rovaniemi, or Reykjavik. These destinations provide a combination of traditional winter wonderlands, Christmas markets, and picturesque landscapes that can conjure holiday magic.

If you prefer sun and palm trees, festive celebrations in warm-weather destinations such as Sydney, Cape Town, Zanzibar, the Maldives, or Bali offer beach parties, outdoor concerts, and cultural experiences. These destinations appeal to travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, or a refreshing break from cold weather.

Traditional vs. Modern Celebrations

If you want a really traditional European Christmas with carols, nativity scenes, and old-world markets, then Europe is the best choice. For a modern, entertainment-focused Christmas with fireworks, concerts, and nightlife, consider Dubai, New York, or Sydney.

Budget Considerations

Your budget will play a major role in your decision: Accommodations and transportation tend to be more expensive during the Christmas season in European cities. Africa or Southeast Asia might prove more affordable. Booking early, comparing flights, and flying on off-peak dates can help minimize costs.

Family-Friendly versus Romantic Getaways

Places like Rovaniemi, Vienna, London, and Cape Town do have a variety of kid-friendly attractions and festive activities that families may enjoy.

For couples, cities of romance like Prague, Paris, and Vienna, or tropical retreats such as Bali or Zanzibar, offer intimate settings, candlelit dinners, and scenic settings for two.

Cultural Authenticity vs. Tourist Experiences

Some people like to become a part of local Christmas traditions, attend community events, and take part in holiday customs personally. This allows the destinations of Strasbourg, Vienna, Prague, or Reykjavik to stand out. Others prefer destinations filled with entertainment, shopping, and nightlife, and global crowds ideal options include Dubai, New York, or Sydney. 

Think about your personal travelling style when you are picking where to go for this Christmas holiday abroad. If you think about snowy magic, beach relaxation, cultural immersion, or family-friendly adventure, knowing what you want will help you make a selection that meets the exact type of Christmas you want.

Essential Christmas Travel Planning Tips

Christmas is a time when holidaying needs some preparation, since this is one of the high seasons of the year. Planning ensures you get the best prices, avoid unnecessary stress, and really enjoy every moment of your holiday getaway.

When to Book Your Christmas Vacation

Christmas is one of the peak travel seasons, so flights and accommodations get booked quickly. Bookings for the best deals should be done ideally 3–6 months in advance. Places in Europe and Australia increase prices in December. Save money with early bird promotions, flexible dates, and flying mid-week.

Packing for Different Christmas Climates

Packing depends on the destination:

1. For snowy Christmas destinations

• Thermal layers
• Waterproof boots
• Gloves, hats, scarves
• Thick winter jackets
• Skin moisturizers-because cold weather dries the skin

2. For Christmas in destinations with warm weather

• Lightweight clothing
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Beachwear
• Light shawl or wrap for evenings
• Comfortable sandals and walking shoes

Having a packing checklist ensures that nothing important is left behind, especially for various Christmas vacation spots.

Avoiding Holiday Travel Stress

Christmas crowds can be overwhelming, so travelers should use strategies to stay ahead:

• Arrive 3 hours early at the airport for all international flights.
• Use mobile check-in and digital boarding passes.
• Pre-book airport transfers.
• Store all documents in one, easily accessible folder.
• Avoid traveling on peak days: Dec 21–24 (outbound), Dec 26–30 (return).

Affordable Christmas Travel Hacks

While Christmas travel may be costly, there are ways through proper planning to reduce the costs:

• Use fare trackers to monitor flights.
• Book Airbnb or guesthouses instead of hotels.
• Attend free Christmas events and public festivals.
• To save money, travel slightly off-peak (early December or after Dec 26).
• Choose destinations where your currency goes further.

Using these tips helps travelers enjoy magical holidays without straining their budgets, especially when visiting the best places to spend Christmas abroad.

Making the Most of Your Christmas Getaway

A Christmas vacation is truly unforgettable for travelers when they fully participate in festive traditions, local culture, and seasonal events. Here are ways to make your experience richer and more meaningful:

Book tours and popular attractions in advance

Christmas increases the number of tourists. Booking tours early ensures that you do not miss such favorite attractions as Christmas markets, concerts, cultural shows, or seasonal tours, including Northern Lights excursions or festive boat cruises.

Try Local Christmas Foods and Traditions

Food is an essential part of holiday culture. Each destination offers something unique:

• Vienna’s Sachertorte and Christmas pastries
• Strasbourg’s pretzels and gingerbread
• Sydney’s seafood barbecues
• Cape Town’s spiced meats and festive desserts
• Reykjavik’s smoked lamb and traditional cookies

Exploring local dishes gives your Christmas holiday depth and authenticity.

Attend religious services or cultural events

Christmas carries both spiritual and cultural significance. Attending a midnight mass, church choir, or local celebration provides insight into the destination’s holiday traditions.

Take Festive Photos at Iconic Spots

Capturing beautiful Christmas moments adds to your memory collection, be it pictures of Christmas markets, decorated city squares, beaches with festive displays, snowy streets, or cultural landmarks that often provide stunning photo opportunities.

Embrace the Local Way of Celebrating

Each country celebrates in its special way:

• Fireworks in Sydney
• Street performances in Cape Town
• Yule Lads traditions in Iceland
• Santa’s experiences in Finland
• Candlelight concerts in Austria

Participating in these customs enriches your understanding of world Christmas culture. Create Lasting Memories Beyond Shopping. Shopping is fun, but experiences run deeper. Interact with the locals, enjoy seasonal festivals, try new foods, and participate in winter or tropical adventures. The best Christmas getaways offer far more than mere souvenirs-what they offer are emotional, meaningful moments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Travel

1. What is the best place to spend Christmas in Europe? Vienna, Prague, and Strasbourg are top recommendations for their traditional markets, festive decorations, classical music, and strong Christmas traditions.
2. Where is the best place to spend Christmas in Africa? Cape Town, Zanzibar, Accra, and Marrakech provide warm weather, cultural celebrations, beach activities, and vibrant holiday markets.
3. Where can I spend Christmas in warm weather? Places to find Mediterranean to warm Christmas holidays include Sydney, Cape Town, Bali, Dubai, Zanzibar, and the Maldives.
4. How far ahead do I need to book Christmas travel? Ideally, 3–6 months in advance. Prices increase sharply during late November and December.
5. What is the most budget-friendly Christmas destination? Southeast Asian destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali offer great value for money, as do African destinations like Ghana and Kenya.
6. Are Christmas markets worth visiting? Of course, they have handmade gifts, typical meals, cultural shows, and a special festive atmosphere.
7. Is it expensive to travel on Christmas? Yes, it is generally one of the most expensive times of the year. Booking early, choosing budget destinations, and flexibility with dates are what reduce the costs.
8. What should I pack for a Christmas vacation? It all depends on the destination. Pack warm clothing, boots, and layers for winter trips; light clothes, sunscreen, and beachwear for tropical Christmas destinations.

To Sum It Up

The best places to spend Christmas offer something magical-from snow-covered European markets and glowing city squares to sunny beaches, jolly festivals, and cultural celebrations across the world. Whether you envision a classic winter wonderland or a warm, tropical holiday, early planning combined with choosing a destination that fits your travel style will ensure a memorable Christmas experience. It’s one of the best times of the year to see the world, experience its cultures, and craft memories that will last a lifetime. So, begin making your plans now and make this festive season absolutely different!

Helpful Resources

If you’d like to explore more destination guides, compare travel trends, or deepen your Christmas travel research, these trusted resources can help you plan your trip with confidence:

1. Christmas Markets in Europe: European Best Destinations
   https://www.europeanbestdestinations.com/christmas-markets/
   Full guide to Europe’s top Christmas markets, including opening dates and local specialties.
2. Best Places to Visit at Christmas: Lonely Planet
   https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-places-to-spend-christmas
   For expert recommendations for both snowy winter escapes and warm festive getaways.
3. Global Weather Averages for December: BBC Weather
   https://www.bbc.com/weather
   For reliable climate information to help you plan what to pack and where to go in December.