If you’re dreaming of a Christmas escape, you’re not alone. Are you looking to swap sleet for sunshine or embrace a snowy wonderland? Either way, a festive getaway can be the perfect way to recharge and create lasting memories.
From twinkling Christmas markets in Europe to warm-weather escapes perfect for relaxing in the sun, here’s our guide to the most magical Christmas destinations in 2025.
Why travel at Christmas?
A Christmas getaway isn’t just a change of scenery; it’s a chance to rediscover joy. As more people look for meaningful experiences over material gifts, the festive season has become one of the most popular times to travel.
According to Scott Dunn’s 2025 Winter Travel Trends Report, over one-third of Britons – around 20 million people – planned to travel abroad over the festive season. This marks a 26% increase from the previous year. Many travellers sought to escape gloomy UK weather, stressful holiday chores, and crowded shops, instead opting for festive markets, beach breaks, or winter sports abroad.
But before you pack your bags, make sure you’re protected with the right Travel Insurance, especially if you live with a pre-existing medical condition. AllClear’s specialist cover gives you the confidence to travel safely, no matter where the season takes you.
7 Top Christmas getaway ideas
We’ve handpicked seven unforgettable Christmas getaways – from European winter wonderlands to sun-soaked escapes – that combine atmosphere, adventure, and just the right amount of festive sparkle. Read on to discover the best places to go this Christmas and start planning your perfect escape.
1. Vienna, Austria
If you’ve ever wanted to step into a Christmas card, Vienna is your dream come true. The Austrian capital is home to one of Europe’s oldest and most atmospheric festive markets, where the scent of roasted almonds and hot punch fills the air. The city is elegantly draped in twinkling lights, and the grandeur of its baroque architecture adds a regal charm to every street.
The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is a must-visit, featuring around 96 stalls selling everything from traditional decorations to handmade crafts. Enjoy an evening concert at the Vienna State Opera or glide across ice rinks in front of historic palaces. For those who love the magic of a traditional Christmas, Vienna offers a deeply romantic escape with just the right amount of sparkle.
2. Cologne, Germany
Cologne’s Christmas celebrations are among the most famous in Europe, drawing visitors from all over the world. With the majestic Cologne Cathedral as its backdrop, the city hosts several themed markets that turn the whole city centre into a festive playground.
From the rustic charm of the Harbour Market near the Chocolate Museum to the whimsical gnome-themed Alter Markt, each area offers its own unique experience. Enjoy warm bratwurst, gingerbread hearts, and a steaming mug of glühwein while browsing handcrafted goods. Boat rides along the Rhine add a scenic twist to your festive getaway.
3. Reykjavík, Iceland
For a truly unforgettable white Christmas, Reykjavík delivers a magical mix of natural wonder and festive warmth. While daylight hours are short, the Icelandic capital comes alive in December with snow-covered rooftops, fairy lights, and a distinctly cosy feel known as hygge.
You can browse through the Yule Town Christmas market, dip into steaming geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon, or take a once-in-a-lifetime tour to see the Northern Lights. The city’s 13 Yule Lads – mischievous figures from Icelandic folklore – replace Santa Claus, adding a fun cultural twist to the celebrations.
4. Tenerife, Canary Islands
Swap sleet for sunshine this Christmas with a warm-weather escape to Tenerife. As the largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife offers a unique combination of festive atmosphere and beach holiday bliss. Expect highs of 17–22°C in December, making it perfect for winter sun seekers.
Despite the warmer climate, Tenerife still embraces the Christmas spirit with street decorations, live nativity scenes (Belenes), and vibrant local festivities. You’ll find open-air concerts in Santa Cruz, traditional Spanish Christmas markets, and even carol services on the beach.
5. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Another Christmas gem in the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria offers dramatic volcanic landscapes, golden beaches, and a distinctly Spanish take on the holiday season. Las Palmas and Maspalomas are key hubs for festive fun, with vibrant parades, Christmas Eve celebrations, and even a nativity scene sculpted entirely from sand.
You can enjoy a mix of beach relaxation and island exploration, from mountain villages to palm-lined coastlines. There’s plenty of seasonal entertainment too – concerts in historic squares, themed excursions, and seasonal Spanish cuisine like turrón and roscón de Reyes.
6. Dubai, UAE
For luxury without the chill, Dubai is a dazzling choice for a Christmas break. While the city doesn’t officially celebrate Christmas, its international community and high-end hotels make sure visitors feel festive. Expect lavish Christmas brunches, towering tree displays in hotel lobbies, and themed events ranging from Santa’s grottos to festive afternoon teas.
With average December temperatures peaking at around 26°C, you can spend your Christmas morning on the beach or take a desert safari for a sunset you’ll never forget. Malls are dressed to the nines with seasonal decor, and shopping festivals offer great deals during this peak period.
7. Quebec City, Canada
For a storybook Christmas filled with snow-covered streets and old-world charm, Quebec City is an unbeatable choice. Often referred to as the “most European city in North America,” it transforms into a festive wonderland in December. Picture narrow cobbled streets lined with twinkling lights, the scent of roasting chestnuts in the air, and the sound of carollers echoing through 17th-century stone buildings.
The German Christmas Market in Old Quebec features dozens of quaint wooden stalls offering local crafts and warm mulled wine. Kids will love the toboggan ride at Dufferin Terrace – an iconic holiday tradition dating back over a century. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a light snowfall as you stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Plan your Christmas with confidence
Whether you’re drawn to the snowy magic of Vienna and Reykjavik or prefer the golden beaches of Gran Canaria and Dubai, a Christmas getaway is the perfect gift to yourself. It’s a time to unwind, explore, and make memories with the people you love – without the stress of the holiday rush.
But wherever you go, don’t leave home without the right Travel Insurance. We’re here to make sure your trip is protected from the unexpected, so you can travel with confidence. Start planning your festive escape now, and let AllClear help you make this Christmas one to remember.
