Traveling during the holidays is a totally unique experience and can be some of the most meaningful and unforgettable trips to take with family or close friends.
If you’re looking for festive and fun cities to explore during Christmastime, a new search data analysis by the experts at Cloudwards has revealed the most popular Christmas destinations for American travelers, and the results range from close by Canadian cities to major cities in Asia and Europe.
Here are the most popular Christmas destinations for American travelers this holiday season:
Vienna
Christmas Market Vienna, traditional market at Vienna Town Hall in December
getty
Vienna was named the world’s most liveable city three years in a row so it makes sense that Americans are drawn to the laidback and comfortable pace of life here. The capital of Austria boasts Christmas market traditions that can be traced back to the Middle Ages which, combined with the rich history and architecture, makes this city a stunning spot to spend the holidays.
Quebec City
Winter day in Old Quebec
getty
Quebec City might not seem like the most far-flung and exciting international destination—but it shows that Americans are interested in taking Christmastime holidays closer to home. Quebec City is an excellent Christmas- and wintertime destination with standout attractions like the infamous Hôtel de Glace, a fully functional hotel made entirely of ice.
Paris
The Arc de Triomphe from the Champs Elysee
getty
It should come as no surprise than Paris cracks the top three as one of the most popular Christmastime destinations for American travelers. It goes without saying that the city is beautiful and plenty with activities year-round but Christmastime in Paris is particularly magical, whether you’re visiting the Tuileries Garden Christmas Market or enjoying the elaborate designer boutique decorations in the first arrondissement.
London
Oxford Street. West End of London. Westminster City. London. United Kingdom
getty
Shopping under the sparkling holiday lights on Oxford and Regent Street is something straight out of a Christmas movie—so it only makes sense that London is another one of the most popular Christmas destinations for American travelers.
Rome
Vatican, Italy — A night view of the Christmas tree in the square of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The Basilica is the center of the Catholic religion, one of the most visited places in Rome for its immense artistic and architectural treasures. Photo in High Definition Format.
getty
There’s a lot to see and do when visiting Rome at Christmas but the city might be the most significant for Catholic travelers. Attending the Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica and visiting the Vatican Christmas Tree in particular are two of the major attractions for travelers visiting Rome around the holidays.
Tokyo
tokyo tower and christmas market
getty
It might come as a surprise to some but the capital of Japan is actually an incredible spot to spend the holidays, especially if you’re looking for unique gifts and unforgettable light displays.
Athens
Athens, Greece: Little Kook, a famous patisserie with Christmas decoration in Psirri neighbourhood in central Athens. “n
getty
Although Athens doesn’t offer the same sun-soaked vibes in the wintertime as it does in the summer months, the capital and largest city of Greece remains one of the most popular Christmas destinations for American travelers thanks to its historical relevance and unique holiday traditions that span from December 6 through to January 6.
Vancouver
Baubles on the beach
getty
The second Canadian city to make the list, Vancouver offers mild temperatures and tons of Canadian charm that’ll make the holidays festive, fun, and friendly. There’s plenty of outdoor activities throughout the holiday season as well as a beautiful Christmas market right on the waterfront.
This post was originally published on here
