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Best Christmas holiday destinations

Here’s our round up of the best places to go for a Christmas getaway. 

Ready to say ‘so long’ to Turkey and all the trimmings this Christmas? Look no further. We’ve rounded up the best places for an Xmas getaway, from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean. We’re not just talking sunny getaways, though – we’ve covered some of the best places to go if you fancy lowering the temp on Christmas day, too. Boxing Day stroll around Central Park, anyone? So, whether it’s sun or snow this Christmas don’t hit the book button until you’ve checked out this list. Let’s get into it…

Once you’ve had a read, bag a Christmas holiday deal.

Dominican Republic

If sun seeking sits high on your agenda for the festive season, how do highs of 29°C sound? Oh, and did we mention you‘ll get an impressive eight hours of sunshine a day while you wear your Santa hat in the Dominican Republic? This Caribbean spot isn’t just a sun, sea and sand retreat ,though. There are loads of experiences on offer, too – from safari rides to whale spotting in the wild. And, if you’re worried about missing out on all the Christmas fun, forget it – Dominicans are big fans of the festive period. Celebrations last from October to January, and usually involve eating tasty dishes like roast pork and pudim navideno – AKA Christmas pudding – singing Christmas carols, and dancing all night at lively street parties. 

Find out more about holidays to the Dominican Republic.
A palm-fringed beach Saona Island

New York

It’s no surprise that so many classic Christmas films are set in New York – we reckon it’s one of the most festive places on the map. Supersized Christmas trees light up the city’s main squares, while festive shopping displays give the sidewalks a Xmas glow-up. The weather adds to the festive feel, with temps often dipping below the freezing point on the big day. Dreaming of a white Christmas? We don’t want to be as cynical as The Grinch, but it doesn’t usually snow here until January. You never know, though – one in 10 Xmas Days has seen snowfall in recent years, so you don’t need a Christmas miracle for it to happen.

Get more info on New York holidays.
Aerial view over Central Park.

Thailand

Thailand’s Phuket reaches sizzling highs of 32°C in December, so it’s perfect if you fancy spending Christmas working on your tan. You can soak up the sun on a white-sand beach, or catch a boat ride to one of the islands – the Phi Phi Islands are a popular pick. Christmas isn’t a religious festival in Thailand, but that doesn’t stop everyone putting up Christmas trees, exchanging gifts and sharing a meal. Quick heads up: it’s usually a Thai curry instead of Turkey and trimmings. 

Find out more about holidays to Thailand.
James Bond Island.

La Palma

If you fancy something a little closer to home, a Canary Island Christmas could be the answer. La Palma is one of the quieter members of the Canary Island’s club, so it’s perfect if you fancy going off grid for the festivities. The island reaches  highs of 22°C in December – scorching compared to the UK’s usual 7°C. The Christmas holiday is celebrated across the island, but we’d recommend a trip to Franceses if you really want to get into the festive spirit. It’s a small village on the island’s northwest coast, and each year it showcases a nativity scene complete with life-size models of Mary, Joseph, Jesus and the Three Wise Men. 

Find out more about holidays to La Palma.

Cyprus

Cyprus has up to 340 days of sunshine a year – yep, almost every day. The Christmas period lasts for 12 days here with things kicking off on the 24th with local children going door to door with musical instruments to sing carols. Celebrations finish on the 6th of January with a feast. Oh, and to save you any confusion, expect to see lots of pomegranate – it’s eaten and used as a decoration, symbolising joyous times and good fortune. That’s your five a day sorted. 

Get more info on Cyprus holidays. 

Cape Verde

Average temperatures in Cape Verde during the winter hover in the mid-20s, making it a sun-seekers dream. If you want to take it easy and work on your tan, you’ll find eight kilometres of sand on the island of Sal. Meanwhile, its neighbour, Boa Vista has a 55-kilometre beach to its name. Most hotels put on huge feasts for Christmas and New Year, followed by a beach party to the sound of traditional music – think bass guitars, drums and violins. Sorry, Mariah.  

Find out more about Cape Verde holidays.
Overhead view of Santa Maria

Iceland

We didn’t want New York to feel left out, so we had to throw in another chilly destination for an Xmas holiday. Iceland’s capital – Reykjavik – is known for its dark days in the winter, but that’s not the case from mid-November when the centre’s lit up with fairy lights. It’s a great place to go if you’re on the search for snow this Christmas – the city usually sees its first flurries in December. That’s not all, though – the festive season is a perfect time to see the Northern Lights and tick off a trip to the Golden Circle. Best Christmas holiday ever? We think we might have found it.

Find out more about our Iceland holidays.
Fancy flying away for the festivities?

Browse our December holiday deals.

Or, read about the best Christmas markets, the best Christmas river cruises and Christmas cruises with Marella Cruises.

Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.

Author: Lizzie Butler and Karl Taylor

Last updated: 19.11.2025

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