3 Underrated Christmas Destinations You Should Visit This Year
When we hear Christmas, we think of big cities like New York, London, Paris, or Vienna.
While these iconic cities are often at the top of my mind, there are hidden gems around the world that offer an equally enchanting experience.
Below are 3 cities that were made for the actual Christmas holidays. I’m talking about beautiful local traditions, down-home atmospheres, and rare winter landscapes.
Let’s go.
3 Underrated Christmas Destinations You Should Visit This Year
1. Oslo, Norway
Oslo, Norway’s capital, lives up to its reputation as a ‘winter wonderland’ with its staggering natural landscapes, friendly locals, and festive celebrations.
You can start at Spikersuppa Christmas Market, which is the heart of all festivities in Oslo. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere with ice skating, dog sledding, and native Norwegian treats like gløgg (mulled wine).
You can also spare some time to enjoy the Norwegian Christmas traditions, visit the Norwegian Folk Museum, where you can enjoy live folk performances, see historic holiday decorations, and sample classic treats like pepperkaker (gingerbread).
Christmas in Oslo is special, and what you’ve read is just a glimpse. You have to experience it yourself to truly understand its charm.
2. Boracay, Philippines
Boracay might not be a popular choice for quiet Christmas vacations. But it’s the perfect place to trade snow for sunshine. Boracay is blessed with beaches with a long stretch of powdery white sand, crystal clear waters, and a stunning sunset.
While Christmas in Boracay might lack the traditional snowy scenes, the festive spirit is still alive in this tropical paradise. To make up for that, you can try other fun activities like parasailing and surfing.
Again, Boracay is not the place if you’re looking to avoid crowds entirely. But it sure feels like Christmas. Picture enjoying a Christmas feast under swaying palm trees, the sound of waves in the background, and the warm tropical breeze
3. Tasmania, Australia
You won’t even know it’s Christmas here. Christmas in Tasmania feels like an escape to another world. Australia’s smallest state, Tasmania is a mountainous island, so you won’t need your snow boots here.
While most of the world is bundled up in winter, Tasmania celebrates Christmas under the warm sun, making it ideal for hiking, nature trails, and wildlife sanctuaries. Visit interesting places Cradle Mountain, Port Arthur Historic Site, kunanyi / Mount Wellington, and many more.
Tasmania overall offers plenty of natural beauty and quieter spots to enjoy without the usual summer crowds. Plus, many of Tasmania’s natural attractions have little or no entrance fees.
Bonus Locations:
- Valletta, Malta
- Malmö, Sweden
- Panama
- Norway’s Kristiansand
