8+ Most Magical Christmas Destinations for a Family Winter Trip
Christmas has always been my most favorite season; I find so much delight in all the holiday charm. If you’ve ever dreamed of taking your kids somewhere that feels straight out of a Christmas movie, I’m right there with you. Though choosing the most magical Christmas destinations can be as tricky as untangling tinsel. It’s not easy to strike the right balance between holiday experiences and excitement with tiny winter layers, minimal daylight, and the usual chaos that comes with traveling with kids.
Over the years, I’ve explored Christmas markets, snowy villages, and big-city light shows around the world. Some spots truly stand out as swoonworthy, straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie. This post will share several Christmas holiday trip ideas that feel especially magical, what makes each destination unique and worth it, and what to expect if you decide to travel to these Christmas destinations with kids.
Jump to: Why, Big City Places, Small City Spots, Tiny Towns, Other Options, Tips for How to Pick, Copenhagen, London, New York City, Bethlehem, Colmar, Zakopane, Disney, Leavenworth
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Why the Magic is Worth It
Seeing a place transform for the holidays hits differently than a typical trip. The festive vibes and energy are captivating. Lights feel brighter, treats taste sweeter, and even simple moments — like walking through a snowy street or hearing live carols — suddenly feel bigger and more memorable. Plus, seeing the magic through your kids’ eyes is an extra special experience.
Many families look for Christmas trips because they want a different environment, a break from the norm, and experiences that go beyond another new toy at home. Others are chasing that cozy, storybook feeling you can only find in certain corners of the world, whether it’s a glowing Christmas market, a mountain town blanketed in snow, or a city that goes all-out with decorations.
And while winter travel isn’t always the easiest season with kids — the layers, the cold, the unpredictability — the payoff can be huge. The right destination gives you those moments your kids will talk about for years, the ones where the holiday season feels a little more magical than usual.
Some places just do Christmas differently. From glowing European cities to cozy winter villages, these are the destinations that felt the most magical during the holiday season and left a lasting impression on us. Let’s get into these fun and festive Christmassy places to visit.
Big-City Christmas Cheer
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Why Copenhagen Feels Magical at Christmas
Copenhagen has a calm, fairy-tale quality that becomes even stronger in winter. The city glows with warm lights, candles, and Scandinavian décor, which helps balance the short daylight hours. Even with the chill, it feels cozy — the kind of place where holiday spirit lingers on every corner.
Tivoli Gardens at Christmas – The Must-See Highlight
Tivoli is the heart of Copenhagen’s Christmas magic. It’s the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world. During the holidays, it transforms into a glowing wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive décor, and charming seasonal shops. It feels whimsical and nostalgic. We visited without kids, and even then, we kept thinking how much they would have delighted in the rides, music, and cozy holiday atmosphere. We want to return someday and bring them!
Holiday Markets, Hygge Culture, and Decorations
Copenhagen has holiday markets scattered throughout the city, and we stumbled into several just by wandering around. Think mulled wine, handmade crafts, Danish Christmas treats, and plenty of warm lights. Holiday hygge everywhere.
Why Copenhagen Works for Families
In true Scandinavian form, the city is made for families first. It’s stroller-friendly, flat, and easy to navigate, even in colder weather. Indoor cafés and warm public spaces give you built-in breaks when everyone needs to thaw out. The early darkness might catch you off guard, but it also adds to the atmosphere — everything feels a little more magical under the lights.
How to Get There and Get Around
Copenhagen is well-connected to major airports across Europe and the U.S., and transportation in the city is seamless. Buses, metros, and trains are clean and reliable, and most of the main Christmas sights are walkable. For families with little ones, bringing a stroller is no problem — the entire city is designed to accommodate them.
2. London, UK
Why London Wins at the Holidays
The holiday season in London feels elegantly festive. The city lights up with massive displays, glowing streets, decorated storefronts, and an unmistakable buzz. You can feel Christmas everywhere — whether you’re wandering through a market, sitting in a cozy pub, or simply riding the Tube past sparkling stations.
Christmas at Kew, Winter Wonderland, Lights on Regent and Oxford Streets
London’s holiday highlights are iconic for a reason. Christmas at Kew transforms the botanical gardens into a glowing nighttime trail of lights and displays. Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is one of the biggest holiday festivals in Europe, with rides, shows, food stalls, and endless entertainment. And the lights on Regent Street and Oxford Street are some of the most impressive in the world — entire blocks illuminated in themed displays that make evening strolls feel magical.
Harry Potter Studios in the Snow + Festive Afternoon Teas
London’s holiday magic extends beyond decorations. Many families plan a visit to the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studios, which adds snow and Christmas decor for the season — an unforgettable experience for HP fans. Festive afternoon teas, complete with themed pastries and winter treats, give older kids and adults a fun, cozy break from the cold.
Why Kids Love London at Christmastime
Between the lights, shows, sweets, and attractions, London gives families endless options to feel festive. Even if you skip the larger events, simply walking around and taking in the décor can feel like an activity of its own. There’s always something happening and endless entertainment and activity options for all ages and preferences, which makes it easy to build a holiday trip that fits your family’s interests and pace.
How to Get There and Navigate With Kids
London is easily reached through Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, or Stansted airports. Once you arrive, the Underground and buses make getting around simple, and many holiday attractions are within walking distance of central areas. Just bundle up — December in London can be damp and chilly.
Notes from Our Experience
We visited London immediately after Christmas one year, and the festive energy was still high. Winter Wonderland was a standout for us, especially the acrobatic show we saw there, and the decorations around Piccadilly Circus were beautiful. It’s a city that goes big for Christmas without losing its iconic English charm — a great mix of cozy and grand.
3. New York City, USA
How NYC Goes Big for the Holidays
Few places feel as electric during the holidays as New York City. The lights, the decorations, the store windows, the shows — everything is extra. If you love the idea of a city buzzing with Christmas energy, this is it. Even everyday streets feel special in December.
Can’t-Miss Christmas Spots
New York shines brightest in its most iconic holiday spots. The Rockefeller Center tree is as impressive in person as you imagine, and the surrounding area feels like a giant Christmas postcard. The holiday markets scattered around the city — from Bryant Park and Union Square to Columbus Circle, Macy’s Holiday Square, and the indoor Grand Central Holiday Fair — are charming, festive, though pricey.
Holiday Shows and Window Displays
Holiday shows are a New York specialty. The Radio City Rockettes are a Christmas classic for a reason, and many Broadway musicals feel extra special this time of year. Kids also love the elaborate department store window displays along Fifth Avenue and 34th Street, which turn a simple walk into a holiday outing.
Tips for Visiting NYC in Winter With Kids
NYC in December is cold, crowded, and full of lines — but also incredibly rewarding if you pace yourself. Layer well, plan indoor breaks, and aim for holiday sights early in the day before crowds increase. Ice skating is a fun option, whether you choose Rockefeller, Central Park’s Wollman Rink, Bryant Park, or the rink down at Brookfield Place.
How to Get There and Getting Around Easily
With three major airports and robust public transportation, getting in and around NYC is easier than it looks. Though it can be overwhelming for newbies or those with limited city public transportation experience. Subways and buses are efficient and plentiful; taxis and rideshares are too. For holiday tourists, walking is often the simplest way to move between holiday sights as the major ones are generally clustered together.
Notes from Our Experience
We used to live in New York, and the holiday season was always a highlight. The markets felt festive (and admittedly pricey), and the Rockefeller tree never lost its magic. It’s busy, loud, and can be full-on sensory overload — but in the best, most memorable ways.
Small City Winter Wonders
4. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA
America’s Christmas City – History Meets Holiday Cheer
Bethlehem doesn’t just decorate for Christmas — it embraces it. Known as “America’s Christmas City,” this small Pennsylvania town blends historic Moravian traditions with classic holiday charm. With cobblestone walks, old stone buildings, and soft winter lighting, it feels like stepping into a simpler, more nostalgic version of the season.
Christkindlmarkt, Moravian Traditions, and Old-World Charm
Christkindlmarkt is Bethlehem’s signature holiday event, featuring artisan stalls, festive music, and plenty of warm, seasonal treats. Beyond the market, you’ll find Moravian stars hanging from windows, guided historical tours, and shops decorated in old-world style. If it snows — and it often does — the whole town transforms into a scene you’d expect on a Christmas card.
Family-Friendly Holiday Events and Walkable Streets
Bethlehem is easy to explore with kids because everything is close together. You can wander between historic sites, pop into cafés for warm drinks, and enjoy outdoor decorations without needing to overplan. It’s a festive destination without the crowds or chaos of bigger cities, making it a nice fit for families craving a calmer holiday experience.
How to Get There
The town is accessible from several major airports. Allentown is the closest, only 15 minutes away. Philadelphia and Newark are the next nearest options, but involve approximately a 2-hour car ride from there. Once you’re in Bethlehem, walking is the easiest way to explore the historic downtown and Christmas markets. If you want to go beyond the main streets, you’ll need a car.
Notes from Our Experience
Since we went to college here, Bethlehem has always felt familiar. I remember going to Christkindlmarkt one year and being surprised by how festive and fun it was. The decorations, paired with a little snow, make the town feel incredibly cozy and charming.
5. Colmar, France
What Makes Colmar the Quintessential Storybook Christmas Town
Colmar is the type of place that looks like it was built for Christmas. Half-timbered houses, winding cobblestone streets, canals, and colorful facades come together to create a setting that feels pulled straight from a fairy tale — think Beauty and the Beast. Even when we visited in spring, it still looked like a Christmas village. During the holidays, the effect is even stronger.
Famous Christmas Markets and Light Displays
Colmar is known for having multiple Christmas markets spread around town, each with its own theme and specialty vendors. During the holidays, the entire center glows with lights and festive decorations. Simply walking is an endless attraction.
Alsace Winter Charm – Food, Scenery, and Festivities
The Alsace region blends French and German traditions, so food during the holidays is comforting, hearty, and perfect for winter wandering. Think pretzels, warm cheese, pastries, mulled wine, and plenty of sweet treats. Add charming squares, music, and festive accents everywhere you look, and it’s easy to see why Colmar is one of Europe’s most beloved Christmas towns.
Why Families Will Love Colmar
Colmar is walkable, enchanting, and full of kid-friendly snack breaks. A winning combination for families. When we visited with our kids, they were completely charmed by the town and motivated by all the treats and fun things to look at. There’s also a petite train you can take as a fun tour and a break from walking. You’ll find some small parks that work when they need to run off a bit.
How to Get There
Most families reach Colmar by train, either from Paris or via nearby Strasbourg or Basel. The station is close enough to walk or take a quick taxi to the old town, and once you’re in the center, you won’t need a car.
Notes from Our Experience
We weren’t here during the Christmas season, but we visited in the springtime during an Easter festival. The whole town was dressed for the holiday with colorful egg decor, live rabbits, carrots, and more. Colmar is one of those fairy tale destinations that keeps you oohing and ahhing. It was crowded then, and it’s even busier in winter. The charm, colors, and energy kept our kids engaged the whole time. Simply wandering was our favorite part, and it’s easy to imagine how magical it becomes once the lights and markets appear.
6. Zakopane, Poland
Poland’s Winter Capital – A Real-Life Snow Globe
If you’re dreaming of a place that looks and feels like winter magic, Zakopane delivers. Nestled at the base of the Tatra Mountains in Southern Poland, this mountain town transforms into a snow-filled wonderland with wooden chalets, glowing lights, and powdery snow everywhere you look. It’s a snowy holiday setting that feels almost unreal. In awestruck wonder, I couldn’t pick my jaw up off the floor the entire trip.
Christmas Markets, Highland Culture, and Mountain Scenery
Zakopane layers its natural beauty with festive touches — holiday lights strung across wooden buildings, traditional highland music, and cozy restaurants serving hearty Polish dishes. Christmas markets pop up throughout town, and the surrounding mountains give the whole place a postcard-perfect backdrop.
Skiing, Horse-Sleigh Rides, and Kid-Friendly Snow Play
If your family wants snow, Zakopane is an excellent bet. During our visit, it snowed lightly almost constantly, and the town was blanketed in deep snow that made even simple walks feel festive. Kids will love watching horse-drawn sleighs glide by, riding them through snowy paths, or simply playing in the snow. Local ski areas and winter attractions add even more options for family fun.
Why Zakopane Is Perfect for Families
The town is small, walkable, and full of festive scenes. We saw so many parents pulling their kids around town in little sleds, which was charming and practical for trying to get little legs through lots of snow. Even though we visited without our kids, it was obvious how much they would have enjoyed the whole scene.
How to Get There (Flying into Krakow + Bus/Train to Zakopane)
Most travelers fly into Krakow and then continue to Zakopane by bus or train. The journey is straightforward, though winter weather can cause delays — our train was held up due to snow, but our train still made it despite the storm. Once you arrive, you can walk many places, use local shuttles, or rely on inexpensive taxis.
Notes from Our Experience
Zakopane felt like stepping into a winter snow globe. We walked through snow that reached a foot deep in many areas, watched the town glow under fresh snowfall, and rode the cable car up Gubałówka for even more festive charm — restaurants, shops, decorations, and incredible views. The two thermal water parks (Aqua Park Zakopane and Chochołowskie Termy) were shockingly clean. The indoor and outdoor heated pools and slides are fun for the whole family to play and warm up. Every corner of this town felt cozy, festive, and unforgettable.
Tiny Towns with Big Festive Fun
7. Disney Parks
Not an actual town, I know, but Disney is its own destination.
Why Disney Does Christmas Better
Disney is always magical, but during the holidays, they rise to another level entirely. The parks transform with glowing wreaths, towering Christmas trees, themed ride overlays, holiday music, and festive details everywhere you look. Even without snow, it feels unmistakably Christmassy — like stepping into a holiday movie your kids never want to leave.
Holiday Parades, Decorations, and Special Entertainment
Everything gets a holiday upgrade. From the seasonal parade and fireworks to character meet-and-greets in festive outfits, the entertainment alone makes a December visit feel special. Main Street drips in garlands and twinkle lights, the castle sparkles at night, and the snacks and treats are themed for the season — another small detail that kids (and parents) love.
Why Disney Works Even Without Snow
Disney doesn’t need a winter backdrop to deliver holiday cheer. The storytelling, music, lights, and decorations are enough to create that warm holiday feeling, especially for families who prefer a magical Christmas trip without freezing temperatures. For younger kids, the combination of excitement and familiarity makes it an easy win.
What Parents Should Know (Crowds, Timing, Stroller Logistics)
Holiday season is one of the busiest times of year at the parks, so planning ahead is essential. Choose your park days early — reservations are required, and Christmas week sells out fast. Expect crowds and build in slower moments, like parades or longer snack breaks. Disneyland is stroller-friendly, but you’ll still walk a lot, so prep for a full day on your feet.
How to Choose Your Disney Park
Disney World, Disneyland California, Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disney Resort all offer their own holiday magic. The core experience feels similar across parks — elaborate decorations, themed entertainment, and festive atmosphere — but Disneyland California is especially convenient for US-based West Coast families, and Disney World Florida can be convenient for US-based East Coast families looking for a warm-weather Christmas trip.
Notes from Our Experience
Disneyland California during the holidays is stunning. The decorations are exquisite, the treats are fun, and the entertainment feels extra special this time of year. The biggest tip? Book early. Holiday dates fill up well ahead of time, and having your park reservations secured takes a huge amount of stress out of planning.
8. Leavenworth, Washington, USA
Last, but absolutely not least, Leavenworth. When the people ask, “What is the most Christmassy town to visit?” Leavenworth is regularly considered one of the most Christmassy places to visit in the US.
How Leavenworth Transports You to a Bavarian Christmas Village
Leavenworth looks like a Bavarian town year-round, but during the holidays, it becomes something out of a snow-dusted storybook. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains east of Seattle, every building is draped in lights, alpine details, and cheerful decorations. It’s the closest you can get to a European Christmas village without leaving the U.S.
Christmas Lighting Festival and Snowy Mountain Atmosphere
The town’s Christmas Lighting Festival is the main draw, when the entire village glows under thousands of twinkling lights. Even on non-festival days, Leavenworth feels festive — music plays through the streets, shops lean into the season, and fresh snow transforms everything into a cozy winter scene. Surrounded by mountains, the atmosphere is pure holiday charm.
Caroling, Nutcrackers, Hot Cocoa, and Holiday Shops
Families can enjoy warm treats, toy stores, nutcracker museums, Christmas shops, and plenty of places to grab hot cocoa. It’s a great place to slow down and stroll, with lots to look at and little surprises tucked into side streets and small squares.
Why Families Love Leavenworth
Leavenworth is small, walkable, and enchanting, making it easy for families to enjoy the holiday spirit without rushing. Even with young kids, the town feels manageable. When we visited with our toddler, we had fun in the snow with reindeer and visited craft toy shops.
How to Get There From Seattle
Most families fly into Seattle and drive about 2–2.5 hours to Leavenworth. The drive through the mountains is jaw-droppingly gorgeous. But that beauty comes with a price tag of snowy or icy streets, so it’s good to check conditions before setting out. It snowed the day before we left, the trees were weighted with snow, but thankfully, the roads were mostly clear. Once you arrive, parking can be limited during peak weekends, but the town is entirely walkable.
Notes from Our Experience
The reindeer farm was the highlight of our trip. We met several reindeer, took photos in a sleigh, and even visited with Santa — an experience that feels tailor-made for a Christmas trip. Even though our toddler didn’t fully grasp the magic, we as parents definitely felt it. In town, we enjoyed a warm and hearty Bavarian lunch and had fun checking out special craft shops, including a unique wooden toy store. Leavenworth delivered that winter-wonderland feeling from the moment we arrived.
More Christmas Holiday Trip Ideas on Our Bucket List
There are more Christmas destinations we haven’t visited yet, but are on our family’s bucket list. These places are known for their festive charm, dramatic winter scenery, and holiday experiences that feel straight out of a storybook — the kind of trips families dream about when imagining a truly magical Christmas away from home. Have you made it to any of these places?
Lapland, Finland – Santa’s Village & Snowy Wonderland
Lapland is the ultimate Christmas bucket list trip for kids. You can visit Santa’s Village, meet real reindeer, stay in glass igloos, and play in deep, powdery snow. With iconic winter activities like husky rides, snowmobiles, and northern lights excursions, it delivers the full Arctic holiday fantasy.
Tromsø, Norway – Northern Lights & Arctic Adventures
Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and December brings long polar nights that make everything feel even more magical. Families can join reindeer sleigh rides, visit Sami cultural sites, go dog-sledding, or simply soak up the Arctic scenery. It’s a dream destination for any family wanting a wintry, once-in-a-lifetime holiday experience.
Prague, Czech Republic – Medieval Christmas Magic
Prague lights up beautifully for the holidays, with its medieval squares, Gothic architecture, and winding cobblestone streets creating a naturally magical backdrop. The Old Town Square Christmas Market is one of Europe’s most famous, and the city’s towers, bridges, and river views make it feel like stepping into a historical Christmas scene. Pragues it one of my favorite places we’ve ever been, and I want to return during the holiday season someday.
Strasbourg, France – The “Capital of Christmas”
Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest and most celebrated Christmas markets in Europe, earning its nickname as the “Capital of Christmas.” The entire city center transforms with elaborate decorations, glowing streets, themed markets, and Alsatian holiday traditions. It’s been on our list for years for its undeniable charm.
Cologne, Germany – Iconic Cathedral Market & Riverfront Lights
Cologne hosts several Christmas markets, each with its own personality — but the one set against the Cologne Cathedral is the most famous. With riverfront lights, chalet-style stalls, and plenty of German treats, this city captures the cozy, classic holiday feeling many families look for in a winter trip.
How to Pick the Right Christmas Destination for Your Family
Inspired but not sure how to decide where to go? Consider the following tips and aspects to help you figure out the best fit for your family’s Christmas holiday trip.
Match the Destination to Your Weather Comfort Level
Some families crave snow, while others prefer holiday magic without freezing temperatures. Think honestly about how your kids handle cold, layers, and early sunsets. A snowy mountain town can be incredible, but a warm-weather Christmas at Disney can be just as festive with far less gear.
Consider Travel Time and Holiday Crowds
December is a busy month for travel, and long travel days can feel even longer when everyone is bundled up and carrying extra winter essentials. Shorter flights or easy train connections might make the experience smoother, especially with younger kids. If you’re heading to a popular spot, build in extra time for crowds and slow-moving days.
Think About How You’ll Get Around Once You’re There
One thing we learned after a heavy winter trip to Banff, Canada, is that local transportation matters just as much as getting to the destination. Traveling in winter with kids means dealing with car seats, loading and unloading everyone while snow falls sideways, and the constant dance of taking puffy coats on and off — and doing that multiple times a day can get exhausting fast.
Destinations where you can walk between sights or rely on easy public transportation often feel much smoother in winter. Being able to stroll from market to café to activity without buckling kids in and out of seats every hour can make a surprisingly big difference in how enjoyable the trip feels. If you’re choosing between two destinations, the more walkable one may win purely on winter convenience.
Look at What Your Family Actually Enjoys Doing
Do your kids love lights, rides, and shows? A big city or theme park might be perfect. Want snow play, sledding, or cozy mountain vibes? A small winter village or ski town is a better fit. If wandering a market with warm drinks sounds peaceful to you but boring to your toddler, plan for quick loops instead of long browsing sessions.
Budget for Holiday Pricing
Christmas destinations often come with seasonal pricing — flights, hotels, and activities can all be higher this time of year. Setting a realistic budget ahead of time makes it easier to narrow your options and avoid stress later. Sometimes visiting just after Christmas or early December offers the same magic with fewer crowds and slightly lower prices.
Plan for Flexibility
Winter weather can be unpredictable, from snow delays to icy sidewalks. And unfortunately, winter also means cold and flu season. Consider refundable bookings. Build a loose itinerary with room to slow down, warm up indoors, or swap activities if conditions change.
What’s Next for Your Family Holiday Trip?
Finding the right Christmas destination isn’t about perfection; every family is different, and different places will work for different families. It’s about choosing a place that feels festive and still manageable for your family. The memories will flow from there. Whether you’re dreaming of small snowy villages or bright sparkling cities, the spots above each offer their own kind of holiday wonder.
I hope these magical Christmas destinations inspire a holiday trip filled with cozy moments your family will still be talking about once the season fades.
Are you also trying to balance how to decide whether a destination is baby-friendly? Or how to manage a long flight with a baby? Check out my other family travel guides for tips on traveling with kids to have a smoother holiday vacation.
