7 Best Places to Visit for a Snowy Christmas Getaway

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The holiday season brings an air of enchantment, and for many, nothing feels more magical than a snowy Christmas getaway. Whether it’s the allure of snow-covered landscapes, twinkling lights, or holiday traditions, certain places around the world embody the Christmas spirit in ways that feel straight out of a fairytale. Here are seven best places to visit for a truly magical and snowy Christmas trip.

1. Lapland, Finland – The Ultimate Winter Wonderland

When it comes to Christmas destinations, Lapland in northern Finland is often at the top of the list. As the official home of Santa Claus, this Arctic region offers an experience that feels straight out of a storybook. From dog-sledding through snow-laden forests to reindeer sleigh rides under the northern lights, Lapland embodies the spirit of Christmas.

Highlights:

• Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, where you can meet Santa and his elves.
• Witness the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, in the pristine night sky.
• Stay in unique accommodations like a glass igloo or snow hotel for a surreal experience.
• Enjoy snow sports like snowmobiling, ice fishing, and skiing.

Whether you’re travelling with children or seeking a romantic getaway, Lapland offers a blend of adventure and magic that’s hard to beat.

2. Salzburg, Austria – A Baroque Christmas Fantasy

For those who dream of old-world European charm, Salzburg delivers a Christmas experience infused with history, music, and festive markets. Nestled among the snow-capped Austrian Alps, Salzburg transforms into a winter paradise during the holidays. We visited in December 2023 and it was a brilliant trip. The entire city feels like it was made for Christmas, with its stunning baroque architecture illuminated by festive lights.

Highlights:

• Visit the famous Christkindlmarkt, a traditional Christmas market offering handcrafted gifts and local treats.
• Take a scenic stroll through Mirabell Palace Gardens, where the backdrop of snow-covered mountains adds an ethereal touch.
• Experience a Christmas Eve performance of Silent Night, which was first composed and performed near Salzburg.
• Enjoy festive horse-drawn carriage rides around St. Wolfgang taking in the stunning snowy mountain views.
• Travel to nearby Hintersee for a snowshoeing with huskies tour. Experience magical moments in the middle of a dreamlike landscape, hike with the help of snowshoes and form a dynamic duo together with a Siberian Husky.

Salzburg’s blend of culture, tradition, and stunning winter scenery makes it one of the most beautiful Christmas destinations in Europe.

3. Reykjavik, Iceland – The Land of Fire, Ice and Christmas

Iceland, with its dramatic landscapes and natural wonders, is a unique place to celebrate Christmas. Reykjavik, the capital, becomes a cosy and festive city during the winter, with its charming streets adorned with Christmas lights and decorations. The snowy surroundings, coupled with Iceland’s geothermal pools and incredible holiday traditions, create a memorable Christmas getaway.

Highlights:

• Relax in the famous Blue Lagoon, surrounded by snow-covered lava fields, under a winter sky.
• Witness the Yule Lads, Iceland’s unique and mischievous Christmas trolls, as they make their way around town.
• Experience Reykjavik’s charming Christmas markets, where you can sip hot chocolate while browsing local handicrafts.
• Hunt for the Northern Lights, which are often visible during the winter months in Iceland.
• Head out on a Sightseeing Tour to the Golden Circle and Langjökull glacier from Reykjavik where you will see Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal zone, Gullfoss waterfall and the Langjökull glacier and its ice cave.

Iceland’s blend of stark, beautiful winter landscapes and quirky Christmas traditions make it a one-of-a-kind holiday destination.

4. Quebec City, Canada – A Christmas in a Snow-Globe

Few places capture the charm of an old-world Christmas like Quebec City, with its cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings, and abundant snowfall. This Canadian gem feels like stepping into a real-life snow globe during the holidays, with the Old Town transformed into a dazzling Christmas village.

Highlights:

• Explore the German Christmas Market, where festive stalls sell everything from handmade ornaments to mulled wine.
• Walk along the quaint streets of Petit Champlain, one of North America’s oldest shopping districts, adorned with twinkling lights and garlands.
• Visit the Château Frontenac, a castle-like hotel that towers over the city, often lit up for the holidays.
• Enjoy classic winter activities like ice skating, tobogganing, and snowshoeing in the beautiful surrounding areas.

Quebec City’s blend of French culture, historic charm and abundant snow make it an ideal spot for a picturesque Christmas vacation.

You May Also Like:

• The Top Things to Do During Your Ultimate Winter Adventure in Lapland
• Seeing The Northern Lights in Tromso
• 7 Ways Austria is a Model of Sustainable Living
• How We Spent a Wonderful 3 Days In Tromso

5. Bergen, Norway – A Fjordside Christmas Fairytale

Nestled between snow-capped mountains and spectacular fjords, Bergen is one of Norway’s most charming cities, especially during the winter. With its brightly painted wooden houses, stunning natural landscapes and cosy Christmas markets, Bergen feels like something from a Nordic fairytale.

Highlights:

• Visit Bergen’s Christmas market, set in the town’s charming old wharf, where wooden stalls sell Scandinavian Christmas crafts and treats.
• Experience the thrill of winter hiking that will allow you to take in breathtaking views across the mountains and Fjords.
• Explore the nearby fjords and frozen waterfalls for a true winter adventure.
• Take part in Norwegian Christmas traditions, such as festive meals and cosy gatherings around the fireplace.

For those who love stunning natural landscapes paired with Nordic traditions, Bergen is a winter wonderland that’s hard to beat.

6. Zermatt, Switzerland – Alpine Splendor and Holiday Cheer

For lovers of winter sports and luxury Christmas experiences, Zermatt, Switzerland, offers a magical setting at the base of the iconic Matterhorn. With its car-free streets, traditional wooden chalets, and abundance of snow, Zermatt transforms into a festive playground during the holiday season.

Highlights:

• Experience some of the world’s best skiing and snowboarding on Zermatt’s famous slopes.
• Take a ride on the Gornergrat Railway for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the Matterhorn.
• Stroll through the festive streets of the town, where Christmas lights twinkle against the backdrop of snow-dusted chalets.
• Indulge in traditional Swiss treats like fondue and raclette in cosy, candle-lit restaurants.

Whether you’re hitting the slopes or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, Zermatt offers a luxurious and snowy Christmas experience.

7. Tallinn, Estonia – Medieval Christmas Charm

Step back in time and experience a fairytale-like Christmas in Tallinn, Estonia’s medieval capital. With its UNESCO-listed Old Town, Tallinn feels like a scene from a Christmas postcard, especially when it’s blanketed in snow. The city’s Christmas market, historic streets, and cosy cafes make it a must-visit for those seeking something off the beaten path.

Highlights:

• Explore the charming Tallinn Christmas Market in the city’s medieval square, known for its festive wooden stalls and towering Christmas tree.
• Wander through the Old Town’s narrow cobblestone streets, surrounded by medieval buildings and centuries-old churches.
• Warm up with traditional Estonian Christmas treats like piparkoogid (gingerbread) and mulled wine.
• Take a day trip to the nearby Lahemaa National Park for snow-covered forests and breathtaking natural scenery.

Tallinn’s medieval charm, combined with its festive atmosphere, makes it a hidden gem for a unique Christmas getaway.

From the snowy wilderness of Lapland to the cosy streets of Quebec City, these seven destinations offer something special for a magical Christmas getaway. So, bundle up, grab some hot cocoa and get ready to experience the ultimate snowy holiday adventure!

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