As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, a palpable sense of excitement begins to ripple through the world. It’s that time of year again when streets sparkle with lights, hearts warm with joy, and the spirit of giving fills the air. Yes, it’s Christmas, the most wonderful time of the year! And what better way to celebrate this enchanting season than by embarking on a journey to some of the most mesmerizing luxury Christmas holiday destinations around the globe?
Ready to book your trip? This is an excellent idea! So let's talk through these 9 Luxury Christmas Holiday Destinations for 2023! they're stories waiting to be written, memories waiting to be made, and joy waiting to be shared.
But this isn’t just about travel; it’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime, experiencing the magic of Christmas in places where the holiday spirit is not just a tradition but a way of life. It’s about being swept away by the wonder of the season, feeling like a child again, and rediscovering the joy of giving and receiving in the most heartwarming settings imaginable. destinations.
Join me on this journey as we unwrap the magic of Christmas in some of the most super cool destinations the world has to offer. Whether you’re keen to meet Santa Claus in Lapland, visit an authentic Austrian market, or even treat yourself to some much-needed winter sun, or cultural celebrations in Mexico, I’m going to take you on a heartwarming adventure that will leave you with a warm and fuzzy feeling inside.
So, dust off your snow boots, pack your coziest scarf, and get ready to embark on a Christmas adventure like no other.
All in all, this guide will give first-time visitors a great overview of what these incredible countries have to offer on Christmas days.
Luxury Christmas Holiday in The Caribbean
Santa Lucia
Santa Lucia, the picturesque Caribbean island, known for its stunning beaches and lush rainforests, transforms into a tropical winter wonderland during the Christmas season. While the island’s warm climate may defy traditional notions of a snowy holiday, it offers a unique and enchanting way to celebrate.
Picture palm trees adorned with twinkling lights, and locals spreading holiday cheer with calypso-infused carols. Santa Lucia’s Christmas festivities are a delightful blend of island charm and yuletide traditions. Whether you’re savoring a feast of fresh seafood and local delicacies, strolling through bustling markets selling handcrafted gifts, or attending vibrant parades filled with colorful costumes and music, you’ll discover that Christmas in Santa Lucia is a joyful fusion of Caribbean flair and holiday spirit.
So, swap your winter coat for a swimsuit, and come experience the magic of a tropical Christmas in Santa Lucia!
Location
Forbidden Beach
Price
$$$
Great For
Caribbean Vibe
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Epic Christmas Getaway to Riviera Maya
Mexico
Pack your sombrero and your Santa hat because Christmas in Riviera Maya, Mexico, is like no other! This sunny slice of paradise takes holiday celebrations to a whole new level. Imagine your family and friends lounging on pristine beaches, sipping margaritas (with a dash of holiday spirit, of course) while listening to mariachi bands playing “Feliz Navidad” in the background. Instead of snowball fights, you’ll be having sandcastle competitions, and your biggest worry will be whether to take a dip in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters before or after devouring your weight in tamales and tacos.
Santa doesn’t arrive on a sleigh here; he rides in on a surfboard or, better yet, a paddleboard for that extra holiday challenge! You can’t help but laugh as you exchange gifts with your loved ones under swaying palm trees, all while wearing sunglasses and flip-flops. Forget about traditional Christmas sweaters; it’s all about finding the most outrageous tropical prints!
In Riviera Maya, it’s not just about the presents; it’s about the unforgettable experiences. You’ll be snorkeling in cenotes, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, and dancing the night away at beachside fiestas with locals and fellow travelers. So, whether you’re making snow angels in the sand or making friends with iguanas while waiting for Santa to arrive, Christmas in Riviera Maya is a hilarious, sun-soaked adventure you’ll cherish forever. Feliz Navidad!
Location
Playa del Carmen
Price
$$$
Great For
Grandeur
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Memorable Christmas Trip to Phuket
Thailand
Imagine a Christmas where the warm tropical breezes kiss your skin as you walk hand in hand with your beloved along the powdery beaches of Phuket, Thailand. The sky painted in hues of coral and lavender, setting the scene for an enchanting evening. The scent of exotic flowers mingles with the aroma of delectable Thai cuisine, as you dine under the stars in a private beachfront cabana, the soft glow of lanterns creating an intimate atmosphere.
Phuket, with its luxurious resorts, offers couples the perfect blend of romance and adventure during the holiday season. Picture yourselves exploring hidden lagoons and limestone caves in Phang Nga Bay, or embarking on a serene sunset cruise along the Andaman Sea, where each moment is etched in time like a love story waiting to be written. You’ll be serenaded by the melodies of traditional Thai music and find solace in the tranquility of secluded beaches.
As the holiday lights twinkle and the world celebrates love and togetherness, Phuket whispers its own special magic into your hearts. This Christmas, let the enchantment of Phuket become the backdrop for your love story, creating memories that will shine brightly long after the holiday season has passed.
In Phuket, love is not just in the air; it’s in every sunset, every gentle wave, and every shared moment, making it the ultimate destination for an unforgettable Christmas with the one you cherish most.
Location
Kamala Village
Price
$$$
Great For
Nature Lovers
Breathtaking Christmas Vacation in Dubai
UAE
Dubai, a city synonymous with opulence and grandeur, offers a Christmas holiday experience like no other. For those seeking a breathtaking luxury escape, this glittering gem of the United Arab Emirates is a dream come true. Imagine waking up in a sumptuous suite with panoramic views of the iconic Burj Khalifa and the pristine Arabian Gulf, as the soft sunlight filters through your sheer curtains.
Christmas in Dubai is a dazzling spectacle of extravagance. From shopping in the world’s most luxurious malls, with their towering Christmas trees and designer boutiques, to savoring culinary masterpieces in Michelin-starred restaurants, every moment is a testament to refinement and indulgence. The city’s renowned 5-star hotels and resorts spare no expense in creating festive wonderlands, where you can sip champagne beneath towering Christmas trees adorned with glistening ornaments.
The festivities extend beyond shopping and dining, with breathtaking displays of fireworks and light shows that transform Dubai’s skyline into a shimmering canvas of colors. Private desert safaris, where you can enjoy a sunset picnic amidst golden dunes, and yacht cruises along the glimmering coastlines are just a few of the exclusive experiences that await you.
Christmas in Dubai is not just a holiday; it’s an unforgettable journey into the lap of luxury. It’s a time to pamper yourself with spa treatments fit for royalty, shop for haute couture, and dine on world-class cuisine. So, if you’re looking to celebrate the holiday season in unparalleled style, Dubai is where you’ll find the most extraordinary blend of luxury and festivity, ensuring your Christmas is a memory of opulence that will last a lifetime.
Location
Al Sufouh
Price
$$$
Great For
Location
Going to Dubai this December?
Fairytale Christmas in a Castle
Austria
Escape to a world of pure enchantment this Christmas in the Austrian Alps, where you’ll be the honored guest of a fairytale castle turned into a luxurious retreat. Imagine waking up in a sumptuously appointed chamber, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of snow-covered peaks and fir-clad forests. As you descend the grand staircase adorned with garlands and twinkling lights, the aroma of freshly baked pastries lures you into the castle’s grand dining hall, where a feast fit for royalty awaits.
Every corner of this picturesque Alpine castle exudes a magical charm that only the holidays can magnify. Roaring fireplaces cast a warm and inviting glow, and the halls resonate with the sound of carolers singing festive tunes. You’ll find yourself wrapped in sumptuous furs, sipping mulled wine, and exchanging thoughtful gifts by the towering Christmas tree adorned with heirloom ornaments.
During the day, explore the winter wonderland outside your castle walls. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snowy meadows, embark on a thrilling downhill ski adventure, or simply relish a serene walk through the enchanting woods. Evenings are reserved for gourmet dinners that celebrate the finest Austrian cuisine, prepared by renowned chefs who turn each meal into a culinary masterpiece.
In this captivating setting, a fairytale Christmas becomes reality, and every moment is imbued with a sense of wonder and luxury. As you retire to your lavishly appointed suite, you’ll know that this holiday in the Austrian Alps castle has woven a spell of enchantment that will remain etched in your heart forever, making it a breathtaking luxury escape unlike any other.
Location
Fohnsdorf
Price
$$$
Great For
Fairytale Seekers
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Charming Christmas Break in Paris
France
Imagine savoring the magic of Christmas in the City of Lights, Paris, where every cobblestone street and historic avenue sparkles with holiday charm. For those seeking a dream luxury vacation, a Christmas break in Paris is the epitome of elegance and enchantment.
Your journey begins in a sumptuous suite overlooking the Seine, with a view of the Eiffel Tower softly lit against the night sky. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be immersed in a world of opulence and sophistication. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre, are adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, transforming the city into a romantic winter wonderland.
Indulge in Michelin-starred dining experiences, savoring exquisite French cuisine by renowned chefs, and toast to the holiday season with the finest champagne. Stroll hand in hand along the Champs-Élysées, where boutique windows come alive with captivating displays, or visit the enchanting Christmas markets offering artisanal crafts and delectable treats.
Paris in winter offers unique experiences, from ice skating under the Eiffel Tower to cozying up in historic cafés with a cup of rich hot chocolate. An exclusive tour of the Palace of Versailles or a private wine tasting in the cellars of a prestigious vineyard in nearby Champagne are just a few of the extraordinary activities that await.
As the city’s iconic monuments light up in the evening, you’ll find yourself wrapped in luxury, with memories of a Parisian Christmas break that will forever enchant your heart. For a stunning dream luxury vacation, there’s simply no place like Paris during the holiday season.
Location
5 place du Chancelier Adenauer
Price
$$$
Great For
Luxury & Iconic
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Luxury Christmas Holiday in Water Villa
Maldives
Escape to paradise this Christmas for a dream luxury vacation that will leave you speechless. Picture yourself in an overwater bungalow villa in the Maldives, perched above the crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by nothing but the gentle lull of the Indian Ocean. Here, every moment is a masterpiece of opulence and serenity.
As you step into your bungalow, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panorama of endless blue, with a private deck that features steps leading directly into the ocean. Each day, you’ll be awakened by the soft hues of sunrise and lulled to sleep by the rhythmic sounds of waves lapping at your doorstep.
Indulgence is the theme of this luxurious holiday, with your every need catered to by attentive staff. Savor gourmet cuisine prepared by world-class chefs, served on your private deck or in an underwater restaurant, where you dine surrounded by mesmerizing marine life. Enjoy spa treatments that transport you to a state of bliss, or simply soak in your private infinity pool, toasting with champagne as you watch the sun dip below the horizon.
During the day, explore the vibrant underwater world of the Maldives through snorkeling or scuba diving, or embark on a romantic cruise to deserted islands where you’ll picnic on pristine beaches. And as night falls, the stars above and the illuminated sea below create an enchanting backdrop for unforgettable moments.
For a stunning dream luxury vacation, a Christmas holiday in a Maldives water villa offers an exquisite blend of seclusion, romance, and unrivaled beauty. It’s a getaway where you’ll create memories that will shine as brightly as the stars that grace the Maldivian night sky, making this holiday season one you’ll treasure forever.
Location
Himandhoo
Price
$$$
Great For
Epic Views
… and after Christmas,
Ultimate Luxury Christmas Holiday in Igloo Village
Iceland
Iceland is the perfect holiday destination for travelers in search of Christmas spirit. Experience the pinnacle of luxury this Christmas in an Igloo Village nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland. It’s a dream luxury vacation that promises enchantment beyond your wildest imagination. Imagine waking up in a cozy, glass-ceilinged igloo with panoramic views of the northern lights dancing across the Arctic sky. Every moment is a testament to the extraordinary, where nature’s beauty and luxury converge.
Your igloo is a haven of comfort and sophistication, adorned with plush furnishings and adorned with all the amenities you desire. As the sun rises over snow-covered mountains, you’ll indulge in gourmet breakfasts delivered to your door, warming your heart and soul before venturing into the winter wonderland that surrounds you.
Savor fine Icelandic cuisine crafted by world-class chefs, featuring local delicacies like fresh seafood and lamb prepared to perfection. You can enjoy your meals in the warm, inviting atmosphere of a luxurious restaurant or in the privacy of your own igloo, where a personal chef will cater to your culinary whims.
During the day, embark on thrilling adventures such as snowmobiling across glaciers, exploring ice caves, or relaxing in natural hot springs surrounded by snowy vistas. In the evenings, gather around a roaring fire under the starlit sky for storytelling, or soak in your private outdoor hot tub as you watch the auroras paint the heavens with their ethereal hues.
An ultimate luxury Christmas holiday in Iceland’s Igloo Village offers an unparalleled fusion of nature’s grandeur and human refinement. It’s a vacation where you’ll create cherished memories, feeling the spirit of the season in the most exquisite of settings. This is a dream luxury vacation, where the magic of Iceland’s winter landscapes is yours to explore, making this Christmas a truly unforgettable experience.
Location
Selfoss
Price
$$$
Great For
Glamping Experience
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Authentic Christmas Holiday in Lapland
Finland
Ho, ho, hold onto your elf hats because we’re about to embark on the zaniest, most authentic Christmas adventure in Lapland’s Santa Claus Village, Finland! Forget about those boring old yuletide traditions; here, we’re taking it to the next level of wacky wonderment.
Picture this: you and your family lounging in a cozy, fairy-tale-style log cabin that looks straight out of Santa’s wildest dreams. The cabin isn’t just for sleeping; it’s for dreaming, scheming, and pillow fights (with marshmallow pillows, of course). Santa’s elves double as concierges, ready to grant your holiday wishes, whether it’s a steaming mug of hot cocoa or an impromptu snowball fight with a mischievous reindeer.
Now, let’s talk about Santa himself. You’ll meet the jolly old man in person, not in some crowded mall, but in his own village where the elves call him “Boss.” You’ll have an exclusive chat with him in his ice office (yes, an office made of ice), and you can even send your postcards from the Official Santa Claus Post Office, complete with an Arctic Circle postmark that’ll make your friends back home green with envy.
Luxury, you say? How about sipping champagne under the Northern Lights in a heated glass igloo or dining on gourmet cuisine amidst an ice-sculpted wonderland? And the activities? Snowmobile safaris, reindeer sledding, and husky dog rides will have you laughing all the way through this dream vacation. This Christmas, pack your sense of humor, your warmest mittens, and prepare for a dreamy, hilarious, and absolutely authentic Lapland adventure in Santa’s backyard!
Location
Ylläsjärvi
Price
$$$
Great For
Authentic Holiday
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FAQs: Of the Most Luxury Christmas Holiday Destinations
Where is nice for holiday in December?
The Caribbean may be one of the best luxury Christmas holiday destinations in December – it’s the start of peak season and the weather is perfect. Dubai can be a great experience while staying in a castle is a lifetime memory. There are many options, you just need to pick up the perfect destination from this list!
How do they celebrate Christmas in Europe?
For most Europeans, the season’s main event is Christmas Eve, celebrated with Midnight Mass, a grand meal, and gift-giving, with family and friends.
Should I spend Christmas in Europe?
Yes, yes… and yes! Celebrating these magic days in Europe can be an experience of a lifetime. With silver snow-dusted streets and the twinkling lights of Christmas markets, there’s a lot to love about this spectacular holiday.
Where is the most Christmassy place to spend Christmas?
Well, there are so many fabulous destinations where you can experience the Christmas atmosphere, however, Santa Claus Village is perhaps the top. Lapland stays decked out for Christmas year-round, so if you’re craving holiday spirit in July, you’ll still find candy-cane posts, boughs of holly, and a Santa Claus house with live reindeer!
Christmas is celebrated around the World so, book your holiday well in advance to secure the best deals and accommodations for a stress-free and memorable trip!
All in All: Luxury Christmas Holiday Destinations
So there you have it, folks, a sleigh-full of luxury Christmas holiday destinations that are sure to make even Santa himself envious! Whether you’re sipping champagne in an igloo in Iceland, having pillow fights with elves in Lapland, or enjoying a glass-bottomed hot tub in the Maldives, these destinations prove that Christmas can be as lavish as it is merry. So, go ahead, deck the halls with boughs of laughter and make your holiday season sparkle with extravagance. After all, as they say, ’tis the season to be jolly, and why not be jolly in style? Happy holidays, and may your Christmas be as luxurious as it is laugh-inducing!
