The holiday season is fast approaching, and what better way to celebrate Christmas than by exploring a new destination with family? This year, treat your loved ones to a unique and festive experience abroad! Here are some of the best family-friendly destinations for Christmas 2024, where enchanting decorations, snowy landscapes, and holiday festivities create memories that last a lifetime.

1. Lapland, Finland – Santa Claus Village

Lapland, the official home of Santa Claus, is a magical wonderland that embodies the Christmas spirit. Kids and adults alike can immerse themselves in the holiday ambiance, where reindeer sleigh rides, Northern Lights displays, and visits to Santa’s workshop await!

Must-Do Activities:

  • Meet Santa Claus at the Santa Claus Village.
  • Go dog sledding or take a reindeer sleigh ride.
  • Enjoy snowshoeing and winter hiking through pristine forests.
  • Stay in a cozy glass igloo for a Northern Lights experience.

Why It’s Perfect for Families: Lapland offers a winter wonderland that feels straight out of a fairy tale. The experiences are tailored for all ages, with enough activities to entertain kids while adults unwind and take in the beautiful winter scenery.

2. New York City, USA – The Big Apple

Christmas in New York is a true classic, and families will love the festive spirit spread across the city. From iconic holiday displays to ice-skating rinks and the Rockefeller Center tree, New York lights up in grand style during the season.

Must-Do Activities:

  • Visit the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.
  • Go ice skating in Central Park or Rockefeller Plaza.
  • Marvel at the elaborate holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue.
  • Take the kids to FAO Schwarz, one of the world’s most famous toy stores.

Why It’s Perfect for Families: New York City offers a mix of holiday traditions, entertainment, and exciting sights. Its attractions are ideal for families looking to combine sightseeing with Christmas cheer.

3. Nuremberg, Germany – Nuremberg Christmas Market

Germany is known for its enchanting Christmas markets, and Nuremberg’s is one of the best in the world. Families will love strolling through the market’s charming stalls, sampling festive treats, and browsing handmade crafts.

Must-Do Activities:

  • Explore the Christkindlesmarkt with its vibrant stalls.
  • Try delicious gingerbread cookies and bratwurst.
  • Visit the children’s Christmas market, with carousel rides and festive games.
  • Take a day trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a medieval town dressed in Christmas decor.

Why It’s Perfect for Families: The festive markets are ideal for families wanting a taste of traditional holiday celebrations. Kids can enjoy the treats and activities while parents enjoy mulled wine and shopping for unique gifts.

4. Rovaniemi, Finland – Winter Adventure in the Arctic Circle

Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is a great alternative for families seeking a mix of adventure and Christmas spirit. Located on the Arctic Circle, it offers a variety of winter sports and, of course, Santa Claus’ Main Post Office.

Must-Do Activities:

  • Visit the Santa Claus Post Office and send holiday postcards.
  • Take a snowmobile or sleigh ride tour to see the Arctic wilderness.
  • Explore the Arktikum Science Center and Museum.
  • Experience the Northern Lights and stay in an ice hotel.

Why It’s Perfect for Families: Rovaniemi provides adventure in an easy-to-navigate destination. Its unique experiences, from Northern Lights to Santa Claus encounters, are sure to thrill every family member.

5. Paris, France – The City of Lights at Christmas

Paris shines with holiday cheer, offering a dazzling experience for families. With holiday lights, festive displays, and Christmas markets, Paris is the ideal winter destination.

Must-Do Activities:

  • Visit Disneyland Paris for a holiday-themed experience.
  • See the Eiffel Tower lit up against the night sky.
  • Stroll through the Tuileries Christmas Market.
  • Explore the holiday window displays at Galeries Lafayette.

Why It’s Perfect for Families: Paris combines world-renowned sights with a cozy Christmas atmosphere. Disneyland Paris is especially ideal for families, as kids can meet their favorite characters in a festive setting.

6. Tokyo, Japan – Unique Holiday Lights and Festivities

Tokyo’s unique take on Christmas is both whimsical and magical, making it an interesting destination for families. While Christmas isn’t traditionally celebrated in Japan, Tokyo puts on a show with dazzling light displays and family-friendly activities.

Must-Do Activities:

  • Visit the Shibuya Blue Cave and Omotesando for stunning light displays.
  • See the Tokyo Midtown Christmas market and illuminations.
  • Take a family day out at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea.
  • Sample Japanese holiday treats, like fried chicken and Christmas cake.

Why It’s Perfect for Families: Tokyo’s mix of lights, holiday treats, and theme parks creates an exciting experience for kids and adults. It’s a wonderful option for families who want to experience Christmas in a new, unique way.

7. London, England – Traditional Holiday Cheer

London is a true holiday classic, combining historical charm with festive cheer. Families can enjoy a variety of Christmas activities, from exploring holiday markets to riding the London Eye.

Must-Do Activities:

  • See the Christmas lights along Oxford Street.
  • Visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.
  • Explore the Christmas markets at Southbank and Leicester Square.
  • Enjoy a traditional holiday afternoon tea.

Why It’s Perfect for Families: London offers timeless holiday magic, from carolers to winter markets. The city is easy to navigate and offers family-friendly activities that appeal to all ages.

Tips for Planning Your Family Christmas Vacation

  1. Book Early: Christmas is a popular time to travel, so book accommodations and flights well in advance.
  2. Pack for the Weather: Many destinations will be cold, so bring warm clothing, especially for kids.
  3. Embrace the Holiday Spirit: Choose destinations with activities your family will enjoy, from outdoor sports to cultural experiences.

Conclusion

Spending Christmas abroad offers families a chance to bond and create cherished memories in a new setting. Whether you’re seeking snow-covered landscapes, vibrant city lights, or festive markets, these destinations have something for every family.

Make this Christmas one to remember by exploring a magical holiday destination with Travel Crafters. Visit us at www.travelcrafters.com.au or reach out at 02 8964 4221 or [email protected] to start planning your 2024 Christmas adventure!