They say there’s no place like home for the holidays, but as a nomadic child of nomads, I’ve spent my Christmases in pretty diverse landscapes. From the arctic plains of Minnesota to the gentle hills of Kentucky, I never had two years in a row of the same Christmas. You can always spend the holidays themselves at Meemaw’s house, but it’s also a great time of year to see some pretty enchanting places! From Argentina to the UK, here are some festive destinations to spend a magical Christmas.

Magical Christmas Destinations in the Americas

Santa Fe, New Mexico, US

To the uninitiated, a winter in Santa Fe might seem like a winter in Palm Springs, or Phoenix; warm, dry, and sunny. But Santa Fe lies tucked between the high desert and the mountains, and she often sees snow in December. Not only is the historic Santa Fe plaza absolutely magical in the snow, but local hotel La Fonda often decks the halls with ice sculptures. Grab a hot chocolate and biscochito while you watch the masters at work, then take in the architecture at the Loretto Chapel or San Miguel Chapel (built in 1610!). If you want more adventure on your trip, break out your inner ski bum at Ski Santa Fe. Cap it all off with a New Mexican (Mexican/Indigenous fusion) meal at local favorite, Tomasita’s.

Montréal, Québec, Canada

Often compared to Paris, this stunning, cosmopolitan city is a jewel in Canada’s crown. Filled with charming architecture, behemoth cultural institutions, and delicious food, Montréal is the best of Anglo and Québécois tradition. Indulge in outdoor winter fun by ice skating or tubing on Mount Royal. Get in the Christmas spirit by visiting the ad hoc Christmas celebrations at the stunning old world Place Jacques-Cartier or the charming Rue Saint-Catherine. When you’re tired of the fabulous street food, head indoors for some warming onion soup at Modavie, or some unique and creative fare at Pastel.

Mexico City (Ciudad de México), México

With over 9 million people, Mexico City is one of the largest cities in North America. While a Mexican Christmas might conjure images of Santa hats on the beach, this vibrant, historic city offers a Christmas experience like no other. Skate on the rink at Zocalo Square under magical lights, get tamales from a street vendor, and browse the Christmas Market (and permanent flower market) at Floreria Mercado Jamaica. At night, be sure to visit one of the city’s many speakeasys (like Handshake – one of the best bars in the world).

Georgetown, Colorado, US

If a Hallmark movie were a town, it’d be this Rocky Mountain enclave. Just a few hours from Denver on I-70, this little town is big on charm. Take a walk through the historic main street. Experience snow-capped peaks with a ride on the historic railroad with steam engines. Personally, I love spending a snowy day at the quirky cafe Mountain Mamas’ Needful Things, and going back in time at Kneisel and Anderson. When you’re ready for a nightcap, grab a beer at Guanella Pass Brewery or Mother’s Saloon.

Banff, Alberta, Canada

Located in the heart of the rugged Canadian rockies, the village of Banff holds a special place in the heritage of Canada, boasting over 179 sites on their inventory of historic resources. One of the most coveted ski towns in the world, Banff combines the ultimate in the rustic and elegant with world-class amenities nestled in wild and unforgiving scenery. For classic winter activities, you can ice skate at Lake Louise, or stay out of the cold with a relaxing soak at Upper Hot Springs. Take a gondola to experience the world-class views and world-class food at Sky Bistro, or to visit Santa at the top of Sulphur Mountain.

Bariloche, Patagonia, Argentina

If the frigid temps of Canada and Austria intimidate you, Christmas in Argentina may be more your speed! Called the “Switzerland of Argentina,” the lakeside town of San Carlos de Bariloche (or just Bariloche) is a small, storybook city perfect for a low stakes getaway. Though it gets pummeled with snow in the winter (and has some world-class skiing), Christmas technically occurs during the summer there! Take a gondola up the mountain and take in the natural scenery. If you’re a foodie, the region has the best of its Spanish, German, and Fuegian roots. Sample a delicious Malbec or Mendoza on a wine tour at the Grecian-themed Bodega Establecimiento Ariadna. For a good example of warm, cozy Argentinian hospitality, have dinner at the historic cabin Refugio Berghof.

New York City, New York, US

In the heated battle for Christmas dominance, New York City lies at the top of the food chain. The romance of New York at Christmas has been captured on film since the 1947 classic Miracle on 34th Street. Scenes like the skaters at Rockefeller Center or viewing a crisp, snow-covered city from the top of the Empire State Building permeate the imagination. Window shopping at the likes of the flagship Macy’s, Bergdorf Goodman, and FAO Schwartz are practically a local sport. You can’t trip without landing on 10 great restaurants in the city, but 150 year old institution Venchi has my heart for a great cup of hot cocoa, with locations all over Manhattan.

Medellín, Colombia

Much like Mexico City, you may not think of balmy Colombia when you think of the ultimate winter getaway. But if you want to see a true explosion of holiday lights, look no further than Medellín. The city lights up with literal millions of bulbs in every color of the rainbow. The displays show up all over, so I recommend starting from the Plaza Botero. and working your way outwards. Make sure to pick up sumptuous arepas and empanadas from a street cart along your way. If you’re looking for a less casual meal, get a view of the lights under the towering windows at Real Eatery. Maybe have some earplugs handy – the city has fireworks just about every night during the December.

Magical European Christmas Destinations

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg didn’t have the first official Christmas market – that award goes to Dresden. But as the home of the Christkind (sometimes called the Christkindl), Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt holds a special place in Germany’s culture. The market is the main draw. Open from late November to Christmas Eve, you can visit this little town of wood and cloth, eat bratwursts, drink Glühwein (sweet, hot, spiced wine), and buy delightful, handmade gifts to your heart’s content. Outside the market, take in Nuremberg’s charming medieval architecture with a stroll along the city walls. Get cozy with modern German cuisine (and fantastic German wine) at Koch und Kellner.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna was recently named the best place in the world to live for the fourth time (brb – job searching and learning Austrian German). Before you buy an apartment in the Innere Stadt, though, see this already storybook city come alive during the holidays. See stunning architectural marvels like Schloss Schönbrunn and the Vienna Opera House (Wiener Staatsoper) lit up in holiday splendor. Visit the oldest December market in Europe (since 1298!) under the watchful gaze of Michaelertrakt. Watch a holiday concert by the world-famous Vienna Boys Choir. Though Vienna is chock full of Michelin-starred restaurants, you must try the street food Käsekrainer (kay-zuh-CRY-ner) – a delicious sausage stuffed with cheese.

Talinn, Estonia

Estonia may not be high on your European travel list. But if so, you’re missing on one of the most magical Christmas experiences in the world! Estonia has been a free state since 1918, but was occupied by the Soviet Union until 1991 when they gained full independence in the inspirationally named nonviolent coup The Singing Revolution. For the 30 years since, they’ve been working hard to reclaim their cultural legacy and their highly photogenic, fairytale Christmas Market is one way (ft. a 50 foot Christmas tree 😮). You must also experience the incredible, Soviet-busting legacy of Estonian choral music, of course. Lore Bistro has reasonable prices and cozy old-world atmosphere but don’t be fooled into thinking the food is run-of-the-mill – it’s in the Michelin guide.

London, United Kingdom

Going head-to-head with New York and Vienna on the Christmas charm front, London holds its own as a heavyweight. In the UK, preparing for Christmas and Boxing Day may as well be a national sport. You must, must must take a walk down Regent Street to see the famous angels (pictured above), or take a bus tour of famous light displays all over the city. While Christmas markets about, I have a special affection for the market at the bustling Covent Garden. For a sumptuous indoor experience, have a meal on the decadent Belmond Pullman. See Windsor Castle or Kensington Palace decked out in their holiday finery. London is stuffed with fabulous restaurants, of course, but I can never resist the siren call of Dishoom.

Rovaniemi, Lappland, Finland

Compared to London or Mexico City, this tiny town flirting with the Arctic Circle may not be on your travel radar. Sure it has snow and reindeer, but what else? Santa’s actual workshop, that’s what. After being almost completely destroyed in WWII, the town of Rovaniemi received assistance from the UN to rebuild. This grant caught the eye of the first lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, who decided to visit the resilient village which caught her eye. The town built a cabin to house Mrs. Roosevelt for her trip in only one week, and as tourists came to view the site, the town realized an opportunity for revitalization. Today, you can ride on a dogsled or sleigh pulled by reindeer, cross the arctic circle, see the northern lights, and more. While there are direct flights from Helsinki and Oslo, the most romantic option is the Santa Claus Express overnight train from Helsinki.

---

Whether your Christmas vibe includes dogsledding or window shopping, there are lots of beautiful places around the world to spend the most wonderful time of the year. Have you been to any of these places?