As the holiday season approaches, many families are starting to plan their Christmas vacations. With so many options available, it can be challenging to decide on the best destination for a family trip. Whether you’re looking for a snowy winter wonderland or a tropical escape, there are plenty of great places to travel with family for Christmas.
One popular destination for families during the holiday season is Disney World in Orlando, Florida. With special holiday events and decorations, Disney World offers a magical experience for kids and adults alike. Another option is San Juan, Puerto Rico, where the waterfront amphitheater turns into a Christmas-themed carnival with rides, decorations, and a special Santa’s Workshop. For those looking to experience Christmas traditions in Europe, the German Christmas markets offer a unique and festive atmosphere.
No matter what your family’s interests are, there is a perfect Christmas vacation destination for everyone. From skiing in the mountains to lounging on the beach, there are plenty of options to choose from. In the following sections, we will explore some of the best places to travel with family for Christmas, taking into account factors such as budget, activities, and overall family-friendliness.
U.S. Christmas Getaways
Looking for a Christmas vacation destination that will get you and your family in the holiday spirit? Look no further than the United States! From New York City to Aspen, Colorado, there are plenty of places to experience holiday cheer and create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Here are some of the best U.S. Christmas getaways:
New York City, New York
New York City is a magical place during the holiday season. Take a stroll through Central Park to see the famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, or go ice skating at the iconic rink. Don’t miss the chance to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, a must-see holiday show featuring the Rockettes.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Hit the slopes for some skiing or snowboarding, then warm up with hot cocoa by the fire. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-covered streets, or attend the annual Torchlight Parade on Christmas Eve.
Orlando, Florida
If you’re looking for a warmer Christmas vacation, Orlando is the perfect destination. Visit the Walt Disney World Resort for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a festive event that includes a parade, fireworks, and character meet-and-greets. Universal Orlando Resort also offers holiday events, including the Macy’s Holiday Parade.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a great place to experience the holiday season. Take a stroll through the Christkindlmarket, a traditional German Christmas market with vendors selling holiday treats and gifts. Don’t miss the chance to see the famous Christmas tree at Millennium Park, or take a ride on the festive Holiday Train.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-style village that transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-covered streets, or attend the annual Christmas Lighting Festival, a magical event that includes carolers, a parade, and a visit from Santa.
Branson, Missouri
Branson is a great place to experience holiday cheer. Take a ride on the Polar Express Train Ride, a festive journey that includes hot cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa. Don’t miss the chance to see the famous Branson Christmas Parade, or attend a holiday show at one of the many theaters in town.
Whether you’re looking for snow-covered slopes or warm beaches, there’s a U.S. Christmas getaway that’s perfect for you and your family. Book your trip today and experience the magic of the holiday season!
European Christmas Destinations
Europe is known for its enchanting Christmas markets and festive celebrations. Here are some of the best European Christmas destinations for families to visit during the holiday season.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, Austria is a magical destination during Christmas time. The city is home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to the 15th century. The Salzburg Christmas Market, or “Christkindlmarkt,” offers a variety of traditional Austrian treats, handmade crafts, and festive decorations. Families can also enjoy ice skating, horse-drawn carriage rides, and live music performances.
Rome, Italy
Rome, Italy is a beautiful destination to visit during the Christmas season. The city is decorated with stunning lights and decorations, and the Piazza Navona transforms into a Christmas market with artisanal crafts and delicious Italian treats. Families can also attend Christmas Mass at the Vatican and see the famous nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark is a charming destination for families during the Christmas season. The city is home to several Christmas markets, including the Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market, which offers rides, games, and festive treats. Families can also visit the famous Little Mermaid statue and take a stroll through the colorful Nyhavn district.
Bethlehem, Germany
Bethlehem, Germany is a picturesque destination during the Christmas season. The city is known for its traditional German Christmas markets, or “Christkindlmarkt,” which offer handmade crafts, festive decorations, and delicious German treats. Families can also visit the historic St. Bartholomew’s Church and the Christmas Museum to learn about the history of German Christmas traditions.
Overall, these European Christmas destinations offer a unique and unforgettable experience for families during the holiday season.
Tropical Christmas Escapes
If you’re looking to escape the cold and enjoy some holiday cheer on a beach, a tropical Christmas vacation might be just what you need. Here are some of the best tropical Christmas getaways for families:
Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu, Hawaii is a great destination for families looking for a tropical Christmas vacation. With its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and festive atmosphere, Oahu has something for everyone. Some of the top things to do in Oahu during the holiday season include:
- Visiting the Honolulu City Lights display, which features a giant Christmas tree and hundreds of thousands of lights.
- Attending the annual Waikiki Holiday Parade, which features floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself.
- Enjoying a Christmas luau, which includes traditional Hawaiian food and entertainment.
Maldives
For families looking for a more exotic tropical Christmas vacation, the Maldives is a great option. This island nation in the Indian Ocean is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and luxurious resorts. Some of the top things to do in the Maldives during the holiday season include:
- Snorkeling or diving to see the colorful coral reefs and marine life.
- Relaxing on the beach and enjoying the warm weather.
- Taking a sunset cruise to see the beautiful Maldivian sunset.
Caribbean
The Caribbean is a popular destination for families looking for a tropical Christmas vacation. With its many islands and diverse cultures, the Caribbean offers something for everyone. Some of the top things to do in the Caribbean during the holiday season include:
- Visiting the Christmas markets in Jamaica, which feature local crafts and food.
- Enjoying the Junkanoo festival in the Bahamas, which includes music, dancing, and colorful costumes.
- Taking a catamaran cruise around the islands to see the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
No matter which tropical Christmas destination you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable holiday with your family.
Unique Christmas Experiences
Looking for a unique way to celebrate Christmas with your family? Consider visiting one of these destinations for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Finnish Lapland
Finnish Lapland is known for its winter wonderland scenery, and it’s the perfect place to experience a true Christmas atmosphere. Here, you can visit Santa’s official hometown, Rovaniemi, where you can meet Santa Claus himself, visit his post office, and even cross the Arctic Circle. You can also take a reindeer sleigh ride, go dog-sledding, and witness the breathtaking Northern Lights.
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City is a charming destination for a Christmas getaway. The city’s Old Town is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with festive lights, decorations, and Christmas markets. You can also enjoy ice-skating, tobogganing, and sleigh rides. Don’t miss the Quebec Winter Carnival, which takes place in February and is one of the largest winter festivals in the world.
North Pole, Alaska
For a truly unique Christmas experience, consider visiting the North Pole in Alaska. The town is home to the Santa Claus House, where you can meet Santa and his reindeer, and even get your picture taken with them. You can also take a tour of the nearby Trans-Alaska Pipeline, go ice-fishing, and take a snowmobile tour. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
No matter which destination you choose, these unique Christmas experiences are sure to create lasting memories for your family.
Christmas Activities and Traditions
For many families, Christmas is a time to create special memories and traditions. From ice skating to visiting Santa Claus, there are plenty of activities to get everyone in the holiday spirit.
One of the most popular Christmas traditions is viewing Christmas lights. Many cities and towns put up elaborate light displays, creating a magical atmosphere for families to enjoy. Some places with notable displays include Honolulu City Lights, the Holiday Festival of Lights in Charleston, and the Nights of Lights event in St. Augustine.
Ice skating is another beloved activity during the holiday season. Many cities set up outdoor ice skating rinks, allowing families to glide under the twinkling lights. The iconic ice rink at Rockefeller Center in New York City is a popular destination, as is the rink at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden in Washington, D.C.
For adults, mulled wine is a popular holiday beverage. This warm, spiced wine is often served at Christmas markets, which can be found in many cities around the world. The Bruges Christmas Market in Belgium and the Christmas markets in Paris are particularly noteworthy.
Caroling is a classic Christmas activity that can be enjoyed by all ages. Many cities organize caroling events, while others simply gather around the neighborhood to sing Christmas carols.
Of course, no Christmas is complete without a visit from Santa Claus. Many malls and department stores offer Santa meet-and-greets, allowing children to share their Christmas wish lists with the jolly man himself. Macy’s in New York City is particularly famous for its Santaland display.
For those who love the performing arts, there are several holiday shows to enjoy. The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall in New York City perform their iconic Christmas Spectacular, while many cities offer performances of The Nutcracker.
Finally, many families enjoy decorating their homes for the holidays. From Christmas trees to holiday wreaths, there are plenty of ways to make your home feel festive and cozy. Some families even gather around a bonfire to roast marshmallows and enjoy the company of loved ones.
No matter what your family’s Christmas traditions may be, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during the holiday season.

Hello, Holiday Travelers! I’m Judith Eve, the founder and principal writer for HeyFamilyTravelers and CruisingtonPost, and now HeyHolidayTravelers.com
My home is nestled in beautiful South Florida, where the sun kisses the waves and the beach stretches out like an endless welcome mat. It’s a gorgeous place that brings joy and inspiration, but my spirit has always been captivated by the allure of distant shores and unique cultures. The thrill of packing a suitcase, stepping aboard a plane or a ship, and waking up in a new destination never fails to ignite my soul.
I started my life’s adventure as a mother of two wonderful children who have since blessed me with three delightful grandchildren. The memories we’ve built exploring the globe together are the treasures of my heart. This love for family and travel is the core of Heyholidaytravelers, and HeyFamilyTravelers, places where I share our stories, tips, and experiences, aiming to inspire other families to embark on their own adventure-filled journeys.
Over the years, my family and I have discovered our shared passion for cruising. There is something incredible about floating on the endless sea, with world-class service, fabulous entertainment, and the excitement of exploring multiple destinations in one trip. My love for this unique form of travel led me to establish CruisingtonPost, another platform where I focus on sharing our sea-borne adventures, cruise reviews, and travel advice.
My objective is simple. I want to encourage everyone, especially families and seniors, to step out of their comfort zones, explore the world, and create their own cherished memories. Life’s journey is full of beautiful places and moments waiting to be discovered. I hope that through my stories and articles, you’ll find the inspiration and practical guidance you need to set sail on your own grand adventure, during special holidays, or any time of year.
Thank you for stopping by. I look forward to sharing family travel escapades with you and hearing about your own travels as well.
Happy Travels,
Judith Eve