Top 7 Destinations for a Christmas Getaway

Get into the holiday spirit in one of these top Christmas destinations. Whether you dream of shopping at traditional holiday markets or walking in the snow under thousands of glittering lights, there’s a destination that can make all your festive dreams come true. © Anna Duda | Dreamstime.com

Head straight to the source of Christmas cheer with a visit to the North Pole — or close enough. Rovaniemi in Lapland, Finland, is located inside the Arctic Circle and offers everything needed for a merry and bright holiday. © Rui Baião | Dreamstime.com

For the classic German holiday market experience, Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg delivers. The nearly 200 vendors offer mouthwatering holiday treats, mulled wine and handcrafted gifts anyone on your list will love. © Amzphoto | Dreamstime.com

There’s nothing quite like Christmastime in New York City. From the extravagant window displays to the world’s tallest Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, there’s so much to see. © Taiga | Dreamstime.com

Quebec City, particularly Old Quebec, transforms into a winter wonderland for the holidays. In the urban center, enjoy Christmas markets, local shopping and your favorite sugary treats. Then, just outside the city, get your fill of snow sports. © Diego Grandi | Dreamstime.com

For a touch of the deeper meaning of Christmas, spend the holiday in Rome. Nearly every historical cathedral boasts a nativity scene and St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican hosts two Christmas masses, one at midnight and another at noon. © Danflcreativo | Dreamstime.com

For cozy luxury and the opportunity to hit the slopes this Christmas, Aspen is a nice pick. Whisking your favorite person away on a getaway to this small luxury town is one Christmas gift they won’t want to return. © Aruns911 | Dreamstime.com

A unique Christmas experience awaits in Salzburg, Austria. Opt for a sweet holiday (with lots of chocolate, lights and stunning music performances) or a slightly scary celebration — the region is the birthplace of the half-demon Krampus, the antithesis to Santa Claus. © Uta Scholl | Dreamstime.com