The World’s Most Magical Christmas Destinations

The temperature might be dropping and the nights are definitely drawing in, but don’t get disheartened just yet because this can only mean one thing: Christmas is on its way! If you’re looking for a bit of inspiration to help you decide where to spend the festive season this year, then look no further. Here we bring you four very different destinations that will see you enjoying the Christmas Day that you've always dreamed of.

 If you like your Christmas to be…

Traditional - Try Salzburg, Austria

If you want to spend Christmas in a place that looks like the chocolate-box town that you’re picturing in your head, Salzburg is the destination for you. With its cobbled streets, beautifully Gothic cathedral, and singing street choirs, Salzburg is a Christmas fairy tale – it’s no surprise the entire city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site! Spend a blissful few days wandering Mozart Square or stocking up on handmade gifts at the famous Christmas markets and, for breath-taking views over the city, make sure to make time to climb up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress that’s been towering over Salzburg since 1077. For the quintessential Christmas break, Salzburg will warm your heart – the ultimate carol ‘Silent Night’ was even written here!

Cultural - Try New York City, USA

The backdrop of some of the most memorable Christmas songs, films and books ever written, New York City is certainly a magical place to spend the festive season. Soak up the joyful spirit with a stroll through Central Park – roasted chestnuts in hand – or go ice-skating in front of the giant Christmas tree at the infamous Rockefeller Center. Whether you've got all of your gifts sorted already or not, don’t forget to turn your hand to a spot of shopping; the department stores go all out at Christmas time with their impressively stylish and cheerful window displays. Christmas in New York City is a sight not to be missed!

Tropical - Try Phuket, Thailand

If you’re not a fan of the dark evenings and bitter winds that come as part of the package of Christmas time, then all hope is not lost. Why not spend this Christmas in the beautiful beachy paradise of Thailand’s Phuket? The balmy white sands, sparkling waters and clear blue skies are enough to convince anyone to give up their scarves and take the plunge – and at most hotels you can even get traditional Christmas dinners if you still need a little taste of those home comforts. What’s more, the great deals to be had with Expedia’s flights to Phuket mean that waking up on Christmas morning to sunny skies and 30° heat has never been more affordable. What are you waiting for?

White - Try Lapland, Finland

If you find yourself dreaming of a white Christmas, then surely there’s nowhere better to head than the very home of Santa Claus himself: to Lapland! Picture a cosy log cabin, a roaring fire and a cup of steaming hot chocolate and you’ll be all set to recreate your very own winter wonderland. Spend the time leading up to the big day dashing through the snow with a reindeer sleigh-ride or turn detective and go searching for Santa’s grotto. Whether you've got children of your own or you’re just a big kid at heart, a Christmas in Lapland is a Christmas dream come true.