10 most beautiful cities to visit during Christmas week

Vienna, Austria
Why visit: Vienna transforms into a fairy-tale winter wonderland with its charming Christmas markets, especially the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz. The city is filled with classical music, festive lights, and elegant baroque architecture, making it a perfect holiday destination.

Highlights: Christmas markets, ice skating at the Rathaus, classical concerts, and beautiful decorations on historic streets.

Prague, Czech Republic
Why visit: Prague’s medieval charm is enhanced by the festive spirit during Christmas. The Old Town Square hosts one of Europe's most beautiful Christmas markets, and the city’s gothic and baroque architecture creates a fairy-tale setting.

Highlights: Old Town Square Christmas Market, Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Christmas lights along Wenceslas Square.

New York City, USA
Why visit: The Big Apple is famous for its grand Christmas celebrations, including the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Central Park, Fifth Avenue, and the holiday window displays are filled with festive cheer, making it a must-see during the season.

Highlights: Rockefeller Center Tree, ice skating at Bryant Park, holiday windows on Fifth Avenue, and holiday shows like the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

Strasbourg, France
Why visit: Known as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg boasts one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe. The Place Kléber is lit up with enchanting lights and the aroma of mulled wine fills the air.

Highlights: Strasbourg Christmas Market, historic centre, Cathedrale Notre-Dame, and charming half-timbered houses.

Rovaniemi, Finland (Lapland)
Why visit: For the ultimate winter Christmas experience, head to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. It’s a true winter wonderland with snow-covered forests, reindeer sleigh rides, and the chance to meet Santa himself.

Highlights: Santa Claus Village, Northern Lights, reindeer and husky sledding, and staying in ice hotels.

Copenhagen, Denmark
Why visit: Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens turns into a magical Christmas destination with lights, festive stalls, and live performances. The Danish concept of hygge makes this city feel extra cozy during the holiday season.

Highlights: Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market, Nyhavn's festive atmosphere, and beautiful holiday lights.

Berlin, Germany
Why visit: Berlin’s Christmas markets are famous for their unique offerings, from hand-crafted goods to delicious food. The city’s mix of modern and historic sites, like the Brandenburg Gate, create a beautiful backdrop for the holiday season.

Highlights: Christmas markets (especially at Gendarmenmarkt), Brandenburg Gate, ice skating, and festive street lights.

Edinburgh, Scotland
Why visit: Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town and the stunning Edinburgh Castle make it a beautiful place to visit during Christmas. The city hosts an incredible Christmas market with ice skating, rides, and warm Scottish food.

Highlights: Christmas Market, Edinburgh Castle, Hogmanay celebrations, and Princes Street Gardens’ winter lights.

Montreal, Canada
Why visit: Montreal becomes a festive and vibrant city during Christmas with charming street decorations, French-inspired Christmas markets, and a blend of European and North American holiday traditions.

Highlights: Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets, Atwater Market, and festive lights in the Mount Royal area.

London, the UK
Why visit: London is stunning during Christmas, with lights lining Oxford Street, the famous Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, and Covent Garden adorned with giant Christmas trees. The city’s historic landmarks look magical when lit up.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/visit/10-most-beautiful-cities-to-visit-during-christmas-week/london-the-uk/slideshow/116655629.cms