What better way is there to get in the Christmas spirit than to visit someplace that’s full of yuletide nostalgia? Here are this year’s top ten choices.
#10 Amsterdam: Holiday cheer is everywhere you look in December. For the full holiday experience, visit the Ice Village where you can sip on mulled wine while searching for that perfect gift.
#9 Edinburgh: If you’re looking for a winter wonderland in a fairytale city, this is the place to find it. The Winter Festivals run from November to January. From the Elves’ Workshop tucked within the Christmas Tree Maze to the amusement park rides, there’s something for everyone.
#8 Quebec City: If you need snow to get in the holiday spirit, this destination might be for you. Stroll through the Village where the combination of European architecture and lights create a magical scene. Visit Santa or strap on a pair of skates in a Winter Wonderland.
#7 Munich: So many Christmas traditions originated in Germany. From decorating an indoor tree, to decorative outdoor markets, Munich has it all. Its romantic, festive atmosphere is like a Thomas Kinkade painting come to life.
#6 Zurich: From the covered market at main station, Europe’s largest, to the village at Sechseläutenplatz, Zurich’s holiday atmosphere shouldn’t be missed. You won’t want to miss the 15-meter-tall tree draped in Swarovski crystals or the 12,000 LED light display.
#5 New York City: From Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the dropping of the ball in Time’s Square on New Year’s Eve, there’s nothing like Christmas in New York. You won’t want to miss the tree at Rockefeller center or ice skating in Bryant park.
#4 London: If you’re looking for holiday tradition, try singing carols in front of the tree at Trafalgar Square. What better place to get in the holiday mood than visiting the Charles Dickens Museum for the reading of his holiday classic?
#3 Taos, NM: For a snow-covered yuletide with a southwest feel, there’s nothing quite like the Taos Pueblo. As darkness falls, the crowds gather for the procession that winds its way from the multi-storied adobe buildings throughout the village plaza. People gather around the bonfires, enjoying a simple holiday tradition.
#2 Vienna: For a breathtaking holiday scene, consider visiting the Upper Belvedere Palace at twilight. With the blue sky and lights from the market reflecting off the lake below, it’s a sight that shouldn’t be missed. Add in the lights and chandeliers along the Kärntner Straße
#1 Prague - From its Christmas markets, to the tree in Wenceslas Square, Prague’s picturesque downtown provides the setting for a holiday experience that shouldn’t be missed. The compact city centre, Prague 1, is ideal for pedestrians to take in all the sights, including carolers and many more holiday attractions.
