Top International and Domestic Destinations to Visit in Christmas

This year has not been the way we wanted it to be as COVID – 19 left its footprint on more than 90 countries. But, as the world starts to recover from the global pandemic we humans will find reasons to come out of the hard times we all faced. And what’s better than ending this year on a magical note. The month of December is also a  prime time for traveling to experience the festivities across the world. And there’s always a reason to feel the magic of Christmas, whether you are a kid or an adult. There are plenty of winter wonderlands where you can witness Christmas in different traditions. To make your search easier, we have curated a list of top Christmas destinations across the world as well as in India.

And how about one thing that we address before getting started? Obviously we are talking about the biggest hurdle relating to travel i.e. budget! Everyone faces a financial dilemma associated with the large upfront costs of the holiday and the lack of surplus funds that holds back most people from traveling. Fortunately, there are some companies offering smart traveling solutions with flexible EMIs and hassle free Travel loans for budget traveling so that our dream to wander hits no barricades.

From glittering cities to a few snowy escapes, here are 10 of the best overseas places to enjoy Christmas:

Christmas markets and Europe in December go hand in hand and Prague has some of the best markets in the world. If you are looking for the most scenic christmas market, visit the Old Town Square and make your way up to the top for a view from above. The markets are always hustling and bustling with large number of people. Besides the best celebrations, the cultural capital of Czech Republic is known for its architectural landmarks, historic monuments, colourful buildings, and rich history. One can also indulge in a number of activities during the Christmas season.

A report states that Denmark is one of the world’s happiest countries. The Danes take Christmas very seriously. Copenhagen is Scandinavia’s most vibrant and affordable capital. The Christmas decorations in Denmark’s capital are beautiful and the markets are lovely. Following the best traditions during celebrations, Copenhagen is a true christmas city in all its senses. The Danish capital also has old naval buildings, cobbled streets, an open boat ride around the canals and the wonderful old amusement park that is the Tivoli museum.

Everyone knows Santa Claus (Father Christmas) comes from Finland. This makes the country a fantasy come true for kids and adults who refuse to give up. This is a must visit place for those who still  believe in the magic of christmas. Every year Santa Claus opens the official Christmas season on November 10. The Santa Claus Village amusement park in Rovaniemi, Finish Lapland, is like straight from Christmas fairytale. It creates an unforgettable experience with snow-covered cottages, reindeer rides, christmas trees and beautiful lighting. Also that’s not it… alongside the festivities, visitors also get a chance to witness one of the most magical natural phenomenon in existence that is the northern lights.

Christmas in Germany is a grand affair. The celebrations are different in various cities of the country. The Germans take christmas markets seriously more than anybody. One of Germany’s biggest cities, Cologne boasts of eight different Christmas markets on both sides of the Rhine river. Cologne also offers impressive architecture and old school charm. According to the estimates, the city draws four million visitors each winter.

Salzburg is the home of Mozart, Strauss, and Freud among others. Salzburg is a quintessential Austria offering the country’s European styled architecture, sub-alpine scenery and a musical heritage. The christmas markets, folk customs charm and advent concerts make the magical city of Mozart one of the best places to visit during Christmas.

Christmas celebrations are not just limited internationally. Back in our backyard, there are many places where one can get to experience the festival. If you don’t want to visit overseas destinations, do check out the places below where you can experience Christmas in India:

Goa is obviously the number one place that comes to everyone’s mind when it comes to celebrating Christmas in India. Goa is a party lover’s paradise and is home to a number of Christians. Those visiting will never run out of options for fun and festivities in Goa during Christmas. Decorated cathedrals, midnight mass in churches, nightlong parties make Goa the best place to visit in India during Christmas.

The French capital of India, Pondicherry is the perfect christmas destination in India. The Union Territory is known for its serene beaches, gothic churches, and glances of the French culture. Pondicherry is the home of all things zen and calm owing to its association with Auroville.

Shimla has a sizeable Indian population and those dreaming of a white christmas can head there. The hills offer a peaceful yet fun christmas. The streets, houses, and churches are decorated with shimmering lights, people prepare traditional cuisines and sing carols. There is also a midnight mass at Christ Church and some other churches also have local bands playing gospel music. One can also spend time watching the snow-capped hills, eat at british-era cafes and stroll across Mall road.

Kerala is known to be the best destination in South India. The state is also famous for celebrating Christmas just like Goa. Although spending christmas time in Kerala may seem like spending the festival around backwaters, coconut trees and nature till infinity. The state is known to have some beautiful cathedrals and churches. The Cochin Carnival is held every year in the last week of December at Fort Kochi. At the same time, the shopping festival Muziris Biennale makes the visit more enjoyable. Christmas is a great time to visit Kerala to enjoy the festival with its own taste and also to enjoy the beautiful backwaters.

The city of dreams as it is called, Mumbai celebrates christmas with immense enthusiasm. There are plenty of historic churches in the city and almost all of them organise a midnight mass. Malls and markets jazzed up, citywide jolly decorations, and christmas themed parties and events make Mumbai the preferred place to visit during christmas.

That’s all folks. Dreaming about all these Christmas-y winter wonderlands already?