Map Of Countries That Celebrate Christmas
A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Introduction
Christmas is celebrated all over the world, and each country has its own unique way of celebrating the holiday season. From traditional foods to festive decorations and events, there is so much to explore and experience during this time of year. This travel guide will take you on a journey through the map of countries that celebrate Christmas, highlighting the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Each country has its own top attractions during the Christmas season. In Germany, the Christmas markets are a must-visit, with their festive lights, delicious food, and unique gifts. In the United States, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular are iconic holiday experiences. In Australia, you can visit the famous Bondi Beach for a Christmas Day swim or head to the Sydney Opera House for a holiday concert. Other top attractions include the Northern Lights in Norway, the Christmas markets in France, and the snow-capped mountains in Switzerland.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are great, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover during the holiday season. In Japan, you can experience the illuminations at Nabana no Sato, a magical light show that transforms a garden into a winter wonderland. In Italy, the Feast of the Seven Fishes is a traditional Christmas Eve meal that is not to be missed. In Canada, you can skate on the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink. Other hidden gems include the Christmas markets in Poland, the winter festivals in South Korea, and the reindeer races in Finland.
Food Scene
Food is an essential part of any holiday celebration, and Christmas is no exception. In Mexico, tamales are a traditional Christmas dish, while in Iceland, fermented shark is a unique holiday treat. In Spain, you can enjoy the sweet turron, a nougat-like candy, or the savory cochinillo, a roasted suckling pig. Other Christmas foods to try include the mince pies in the United Kingdom, the panettone in Italy, and the gingerbread in Germany.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling during the holiday season can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. In Thailand, you can celebrate Christmas on the beach and stay in budget-friendly guesthouses. In Portugal, you can enjoy the holiday lights and decorations for free, while in Hungary, you can visit the Christmas markets for affordable souvenirs and treats. Other budget-friendly tips include staying in hostels, cooking your own meals, and using public transportation.
Outdoor Adventures
While the weather may be chilly, there are still plenty of outdoor adventures to be had during the Christmas season. In Norway, you can go dog sledding or snowmobiling in the Arctic wilderness. In New Zealand, you can go hiking or kayaking in the stunning national parks. In Austria, you can ski or snowboard in the Alps. Other outdoor adventures include ice fishing in Canada, snowshoeing in the United States, and hot air ballooning in Turkey.
Family-Friendly Activities
Christmas is a time for families to come together, and there are many family-friendly activities to enjoy during the holiday season. In Denmark, you can visit Tivoli Gardens, the world’s second-oldest amusement park, for festive rides and attractions. In the Netherlands, you can take a boat tour of the canals to see the Christmas lights and decorations. In the United States, you can visit Santa Claus Village in Indiana or the Polar Express train ride in Arizona. Other family-friendly activities include seeing the Nutcracker ballet in Russia, visiting Santa’s Workshop in New York, and going on a reindeer safari in Lapland.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different this Christmas, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. In Brazil, you can celebrate Christmas on the beach with fireworks and live music. In Ethiopia, you can attend a unique Christmas Eve church service that involves wearing white robes and lighting candles. In the Philippines, you can witness the Simbang Gabi, a series of nine early morning masses leading up to Christmas Day. Other off-the-beaten-path experiences include the Christmas tree burning in Sweden, the Grinch parade in New Orleans, and the Christkindlmarkt in Texas.
Natural Wonders
Christmas is a magical time of year, and there are many natural wonders to explore during the holiday season. In Canada, you can visit the frozen waterfalls in Banff National Park or the ice caves in Whistler. In Norway, you can see the stunning fjords covered in snow or the northern lights dancing in the sky. In Australia, you can snorkel the Great Barrier Reef or hike in the Blue Mountains. Other natural wonders include the ice hotel in Sweden, the hot springs in Iceland, and the Christmas tree forests in Germany.
Vibrant Nightlife
Christmas is not just about family and traditions; it’s also about having fun and letting loose. In Spain, you can experience the lively nightlife in Madrid or Barcelona, with their clubs and bars staying open until the early hours. In Brazil, you can dance the night away at a samba club or party on the beach. In the United States, you can attend a New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square or a masquerade ball in New Orleans. Other vibrant nightlife scenes include the Christmas markets in Austria, the pubs in Ireland, and the street parties in Thailand.
Local Markets
No Christmas trip is complete without a visit to the local markets. In France, you can explore the Christmas markets in Strasbourg, the self-proclaimed capital of Christmas. In Germany, you can visit the markets in Nuremberg, Munich, and Dresden, each with their own unique flair. In Belgium, you can stroll through the Winter Wonders market in Brussels, with its ice rink and ferris wheel. Other local markets to check out include the bazaars in Morocco, the handicraft markets in India, and the street vendors in Mexico.
Beaches and Mountains
Whether you’re a beach bum or a mountain lover, there are plenty of destinations to choose from during the Christmas season. In Thailand, you can relax on the beaches of Phuket or Koh Samui, while in Australia, you can hit the beaches in Sydney or Melbourne. In Switzerland, you can ski or snowboard in the Alps, while in Canada, you can enjoy the mountains in Banff or Whistler. Other beach and mountain destinations include the Caribbean islands, the Andes in South America, and the Himalayas in Nepal.
Cultural Immersion
One of the best ways to experience a new country is to immerse yourself in its culture. In Japan, you can participate in a traditional tea ceremony or visit a temple for a New Year’s blessing. In Mexico, you can attend a posada, a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging. In India, you can celebrate Christmas with a Hindu twist, visiting the churches and temples decorated with lights and garlands. Other cultural immersion experiences include the Christmas parades in the United States, the carol services in the United Kingdom, and the nativity scenes in Italy.
Art and Music Scene
From classical concerts to modern art exhibitions, there is something for everyone during the Christmas season. In Austria, you can attend a performance of Handel’s Messiah or visit the Belvedere Palace for a Christmas market and art exhibition. In the United States, you can see the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall or attend the Nutcracker ballet. In France, you can visit the Louvre or the Pompidou Center for contemporary art. Other art and music experiences include the Christmas concerts in Germany, the light shows in Singapore, and the jazz festivals in New Orleans.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore a new city and get some exercise at the same time. In Denmark, you can take a tour of Copenhagen’s Christmas markets and decorations, or visit the Tivoli Gardens. In the United States, you can take a holiday lights tour of New York City or a historic walking tour of Boston. In Italy, you can take a food and wine tour of Tuscany or a walking tour of Rome’s famous landmarks. Other walking tours include the Christmas markets in Poland, the street art in Argentina, and the architecture in Spain.
Architectural Marvels
From ancient ruins to modern skyscrapers, there are many architectural marvels to admire during the Christmas season. In Greece, you can visit the Acropolis for a stunning view of Athens, or explore the ruins of Delphi. In the United Arab Emirates, you can visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, or the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. In Russia, you can visit the St. Petersburg Winter Palace or the colorful onion dom