Top 30 Magical Christmas Getaways from Dubai

Studded with opulence and grandeur, Dubai is a city where luxury and extravagance are a way of life. However, for those looking to get away from the glitz and glamour during Christmas and have a traditional and festive feel of the season, there are scores of places around the world that offer just the ideal holiday experience-from charming European cities to exotic tropical islands. Here are the top 30 magical Christmas getaways from Dubai.

Where is the most magical place to spend Christmas from around the world? London is the answer, for sure, with its dazzling lights adorning the streets of Oxford Street and the famous Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. London offers an abundance of festive activities to enjoy, making it a Christmas wonderland. Apply for a UK tourist visa from Dubai to experience the Christmas festival in London.

Best things to do in London during Christmas:

• Regent Street Christmas Lights
• Go to the London Christmas Markets
• Go Ice Skating
• Dine in an Igloo
• Shopping at London’s Department Stores
• The London Christmas Lights
• South Bank Christmas Market
• Open-air Christmas market in Hyde Park, and Winter Wonderland.

Known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage, Vienna is one of the most delightful Christmas getaways from Dubai. In addition, it’s one of the most affordable Christmas destinations in Europe, making it the best destination for people who are looking for budget-friendly trips in Europe.

Visit the iconic Christmas markets, where you can indulge in delicious treats and find unique handcrafted gifts. You can get an Austria tourist visa from UAE to visit and explore Christmas in Vienna.

Best things to do in Vienna during Christmas:

• Exploring Christkindlmarkt
• Visit Hofburg Palace
• Visit the Giant Christmas Bow
• Step Inside the Vienna State Opera House
• Visit the Belvedere Palace
• Visit Hofburg Palace.

Where is the nicest place to spend Christmas? New York is the answer, it is the liveliest place to enjoy your Christmas holiday and experience the quintessential Christmas in the Big Apple.  

With the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, ice skating in Central Park, and elaborate department store window displays, New York City is sure to fill you with holiday spirit.  Get our expert assistance for US tourist visa from UAE to discover a magical Christmas in New York City.

Best things to do in New York City, USA during Christmas:

• Visit Union Square Holiday Market
• Go to winter Village at Bryant Park
• Visit Rockefeller Center Christmas tree
• Shopping in Mega-market such as Bryant Park’s winter village
• Go ice skating at the Wollman rink.

You will surely get a merry, Christmassy vibe in Prague from the awesome smell of gingerbread and chestnuts wafting through the air. Prague’s old-world charm comes alive during the Christmas season. Stroll through the picturesque streets, visit the enchanting Christmas markets, and warm yourself up with a cup of hot chocolate. You can get Czech Republic visa from UAE to experience a magical Christmas in Prague.

Best things to do in Prague, Czech Republic  during Christmas:

• Visit The Old Town Square Christmas Markets
• Walk the Vltava River at Night
• Christmas Markets at Castle Hill
• Sip some svarak
• Feast on Christmas street food
• Skate on Strelecky Island.

Where is the most magical place to spend Christmas? Paris is called the City of Lights for a reason; it gives you the most magical winter wonderland during Christmas. Christmas in Paris puts the city on a whole new level. Admire the beautifully decorated Champs-Élysées, indulge in traditional French pastries, and take a romantic walk along the Seine.  To enjoy the beautiful Christmas environment in Paris get our expert assistance with a France tourist visa from UAE

Best things to do in Paris, France  during Christmas:

• Visit Christmas markets in Paris
• Enjoy a show at the Moulin Rouge Cabaret
• Attend Christmas Eve concerts
• Take a holiday cruise on the Seine River
• View nativity scenes in Paris churches
• Visit Disneyland Paris at Christmas
• Ice skate in iconic Paris locations
• Join a Paris Christmas lights walking tour.

Experience a unique Christmas in Amsterdam with its charming canals and historic buildings. Explore the city’s markets, ice skate in Museumplein, and marvel at the fairy-tale-like decorations. Don’t miss the enchanting Christmas decorations in Amsterdam call us to get expert assistance with Netherlands visa from UAE

Best things to do in Amsterdam, Netherlands during Christmas:

• Visit Vondelpark
• Explore museums
• Enjoy Amsterdam Christmas markets
• Attend the Winter Parade
• Visit ICE Amsterdam
• Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival
• Go ice skating
• Wander the canals

Iceland is one of the best Christmas getaways from Dubai and for a truly unique Christmas experience, head to Reykjavik. Reykjavik is a magical winter wonderland with an array of seasonal activities to indulge in such as ice skating on frozen ponds and exploring the Christmas markets adorned with twinkling fairy lights. 

Enjoy the magical Northern Lights, soak in hot springs, and immerse yourself in Icelandic traditions.  Apply for an Iceland visa from UAE to visit Reykjavik.

Best things to do in Reykjavik, Iceland during Christmas:

• Go shopping on Laugavegur
• Visit Christmas markets
• Go ice skating
• Spot the Yule Lads around town
• Participate in the Iceland Book Flood
• Learn about the Yule Cat
• Try fermented skate
• Visit Harpa Concert Hall
• Go on a Santa Claus hunt in downtown Reykjavik

Embrace the festive atmosphere in Barcelona with its delightful Christmas markets, vibrant decorations, and lively street performances. Don’t forget to try traditional Spanish delicacies such as turron and cava. Barcelona is one of the most popular European Christmas destinations you must visit. We offer expert assistance to get a Spain tourist visa for UAE residents to visit Barcelona.

Best things to do in Barcelona, Spain during Christmas:

• Visit Christmas markets in Barcelona
• Explore the Barcelona Cathedral
• Enjoy the Barcelona Christmas lights
• Go “nativity-watching”
• Visit La Sagrada Familia
• Wander through the Gothic Quarter
• Attend a Flamenco show
• Discover Park Güell
• Watch The Three Kings Parade.

Berlin knows how to celebrate Christmas in style with the iconic Brandenburg Gate dressed up in lights. The city offers a one-of-a-kind holiday experience to enjoy the Christmas season with your family.

Before applying for a German visa, understand Germany tourist visa requirements from UAE to visit Berlin.

Best things to do in Berlin, Germany during Christmas:

• Visit the Jewish Museum Berlin
• Explore Christmas markets
• Go sledding at Winter World
• See the Christmas lights at Ku’damm
• Enjoy the enchanting lights at the Sony Centre
• Watch the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
• Attend Christmas church services.

With its stunning alpine landscapes and charming old town, Zurich is a picturesque destination during Christmas. Explore the Christmas markets, ice skating on Lake Zurich, and enjoy breathtaking views from Uetliberg Mountain. If you plan to enjoy the delights of a European white Christmas, Zurich in Switzerland is the ideal destination. Get our expert help with Switzerland visa from UAE to visit Zurich.

Best things to do in Zurich, Switzerland during Christmas:

• Visit Zurich Christmas markets
• Visit the singing Christmas tree
• Visit Cozy fondue chalets
• Go to Traditional events such as candle dipping at Bürkliplatz, the “Märlitram” fairy tale tram, or Conelli Christmas Circus.

Rome’s rich history and enchanting atmosphere make it a captivating Christmas destination. The city becomes a charming haven with streets lined with lights and decorations adorning all the top sites. Visit the Vatican City for midnight mass, admire the stunning Nativity scenes, and indulge in delicious Italian cuisine. TravNook team can guide you to get an Italy visa from UAE to visit Rome easily.

Best things to do in Rome, Italy during Christmas:

• Explore Christmas markets in Rome
• Attend Christmas Mass
• Check out nativity scenes
• Visit the Colosseum
• Discover the Roman Forum
• Climb Palatine Hill
• Tour the Vatican Museum
• Visit the Borghese Gallery
• See the Trevi Fountain
• Admire the Sistine Chapel
• Enjoy delicious Italian cuisine.

The Scottish capital comes alive with festive cheer during Christmas, making it one of the best Christmas getaways from Dubai. Experience the famous Hogmanay celebrations, stroll through the Christmas markets, and enjoy the stunning views from Edinburgh Castle. It’s truly worth visiting Edinburgh during Christmas.

Best things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland during Christmas:

• Mooch around the market
• Visit Edinburgh Castle
• Tour the Royal Yacht Britannia
• Explore the Edinburgh Christmas Markets
• Glide down George Street on skates
• Visit the Royal Botanic Garden
• Enjoy The Winter Light Trail.

Known for its hygge lifestyle, Copenhagen offers a cozy and welcoming Christmas experience. Explore Tivoli Gardens, enjoy hot chocolate by the fire, and savor traditional Danish Christmas dishes with your loved people. You may experience snowy showers during Christmas in Copenhagen, making it one of the most magical Christmas getaways from Dubai. Our consultants will guide you to get a Denmark tourist visa from UAE to visit Copenhagen.

Best things to do in Copenhagen, Denmark during Christmas:

• Attend the Saint Lucia Kayak Parade
• Visit Tivoli Gardens
• Visit Renaissance Castle and Rosenborg Castle
• Go Ice Skating
• Watch the Saint Lucia Kayak Parade
• Stop by Nyhavn
• Feast away at the Torvehallerne.

Budapest’s thermal baths and stunning architecture create a magical setting for Christmas. Enjoy the festive markets, soak in the healing waters, and savor Hungarian cuisine. Spending Christmas in Budapest promises an extra level of fairy-tale excitement. Get the Hungary tourist visa requirements from UAE to visit Budapest.

Best things to do in Budapest, Hungary during Christmas:

• Watch the Basilica light show
• Take a cruise on the Danube in Budapest
• Eat a chimney cake at the Basilica Christmas Market
• Go to Vörösmarty Square
• Celebrate Santa Claus Day
• Warm up at the Széchenyi Spa
• Go skating at the City Park Ice Rink.

For a unique Christmas experience, head to Tokyo. Admire the stunning illuminations, go ice skating in beautiful parks, and immerse yourself in the local culture. The city starts to shine with Christmas lights. You can expect gingerbread houses, lots of German bratwurst, and other German sausages, making Tokyo one of the best Christmas destinations from Dubai. Before applying for a visa to Tokyo, check carefully the Japan tourist visa requirements from UAE.

Best things to do in Tokyo, Japan during Christmas:

• Attend a Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea show
• Explore Christmas markets in Tokyo
• Visit the illuminated blue forest at Caretta Shiodome
• Experience the Oji Fox Parade
• Discover the Old Shimbashi Station and Shinbashi Space Train
• Enjoy Christmas dessert buffets
• Watch the fireworks show over the Rainbow Bridge in Odaiba Park
• Go ice skating.

Escape the winter chill and celebrate Christmas Down Under in Sydney. The city is the perfect place to enjoy beachside barbecues, watch the iconic Sydney Harbour fireworks, and soak up the festive atmosphere. 

In Sydney, Christmas is celebrated with lights, trees, carols, and gifts during the whole month of December, making it suitable for a magical Christmas break from Dubai. Apply for an Australia tourist visa from Dubai to experience Christmas magic in Sydney.

Best things to do in Sydney, Australia during Christmas:

• Visit Santa’s Fun Fair at Rouse Hill
• Explore Christmas markets
• Enjoy Moonlight Cinema
• Experience Gingerbread Lanes at The Grounds of Alexandria
• Hop on Santa’s Vintage Electric Train
• Visit Taronga Zoo
• Explore SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
• Party on a boat in Sydney Harbour.

Embrace the warm weather and celebrate Christmas in Cape Town. Enjoy picnics on the beach, explore the vineyards, and experience the vibrant local culture. Cape Town is a highly recommended place to celebrate Christmas. South African Christmas is a unique experience due to its summery weather and festivities like camping and carol singing.

Best things to do in Cape Town, South Africa during Christmas:

• Visit The Taj Cape Town
• Stay at Radisson RED V&A Waterfront
• Have a picnic at Kirstenbosch Gardens
• Watch the festive lights turn on in Adderley Street
• Explore Christmas markets
• Attend music concerts
• Enjoy a picnic in the Winelands
• Experience the Cape Minstrels.

One of the best Christmas breaks abroad from Dubai is Buenos Aires with its lively and vibrant affair. You will get a mix of cultural experiences and festive traditions in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Experience the famous Tango with your partner and indulge in delicious Argentine cuisine. 

Best things to do in Buenos Aires, Argentina during Christmas:

• Celebrate Santa Lucia
• Visit beaches near Buenos Aires
• Explore the Christmas markets in Recoleta
• Watch fireworks at Puerto Madero
• Tour the Museo de Arte Hispanoamericano Isaac Fernández Blanco
• Go ice skating at the Palermo Lakes.

Celebrate Christmas on the famous Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. Enjoy lively street parties, indulge in tropical fruits, and soak up the festive atmosphere. Christmas Eve is the main day for celebration in Brazil. There are nativity scenes, family Christmas dinners, Christmas trees, and even Santa Claus as a part of the Christmas celebration. Before heading to Rio De Janeiro, be careful with all the requirements to get a Brazil visa for UAE residents.

Best things to do in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil during Christmas:

• Explore Christmas markets
• Relax on pristine beaches
• Take part in an Amigo Secreto
• Visit the Christmas Tree in Lagoa
• Taste delicious Brazilian cuisine
• Visit one of the seven wonders of the world: Christ the Redeemer Statue
• Explore Sugar Loaf.

Seoul offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern festivities during Christmas. Explore the vibrant markets, admire the stunning light displays, and try traditional Korean street food. Our consultants will help to get South Korea visa tourist from Dubai to visit Seoul.

Best things to do in Seoul, South Korea  during Christmas:

• Enjoy Myeongdong Cathedral Christmas Lights
• Visit Lotte World Adventure
• Experience the Christmas tree and ice skating at Seoul Plaza
• Explore Christmas markets
• Try Korean Christmas food
• Visit Deoksugung Palace.

Tbilisi, Georgia is the perfect destination for a festive Christmas tour. During Christmas, the city is alive with festive decorations, traditional markets, and Christmas carols that fill the air. The Christmas markets are held almost on every corner of the capital city, with handicraft items and souvenirs, Christmas treats, street food, Georgian candies, and mulled wine.

Best things to do in Tbilisi, Georgia during Christmas:

• Explore Christmas markets at Orbeliani Square
• Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi
• Walk across the Bridge of Peace
• Tour Orthodox churches
• Participate in the ‘Alilo’ parade in the streets
• Enjoy Christmas treats, street food, and Georgian candies
• Visit Dahlonega, GA.

For a unique and exotic Christmas experience, head to Marrakech. Explore the bustling souks, admire the stunning architecture, and enjoy traditional Moroccan hospitality. Spending Christmas or New Year in Marrakech is extremely popular.

Best things to do in Marrakech, Morocco during Christmas:

• Enjoy a Marrakech Christmas Cruise
• Hike in the desert or explore the Atlas Mountains
• Relax on the pristine ocean and savor mouth-watering cuisine
• Go skiing
• Try rock climbing
• Attend the Tan Tan Music Festival
• Experience the Marrakech International Film Festival.

This stunning coastal city offers a unique Christmas experience with its charming Old Town, festive markets, and stunning Adriatic views. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to enjoy the Christmas holidays. Before visiting Dubrovnik, understand carefully the Croatia visa requirements from Dubai.

Best things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia during Christmas:

• Enjoy the Dubrovnik Winter Festival
• Explore Advent markets
• Taste traditional Christmas food
• Visit the Zagreb Christmas Market
• Tour Sponza Palace
• Attend a traditional Christmas fair at Stradun Street
• Relax beside the Onofrio fountain.

Experience a modern and cosmopolitan Christmas in Singapore. Marvel at the stunning light displays, enjoy festive performances, and indulge in delicious street food. Christmas in Singapore is a big celebration but can be a little expensive for UAE residents as compared to similar destinations.

Best things to do in Singapore during Christmas:

• Attend the One15 Christmas Boat Light Parade
• Visit Snow City
• Enjoy Christmas events like Pinkmas at the Museum of Ice Cream Singapore
• Shop at Christmas markets
• Visit Orchard Road at night to see the lights.

Enjoy a tropical Christmas in Bali, with its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and unique cultural experiences. Bali will give you a bright Christmas experience. You will get excellent weather in Bali during Christmas. Call us to get an Indonesia tourist visa from Dubai to visit Bali for Christmas.

Best things to do in Bali, Indonesia during Christmas:

• Visit Jimbaran Bay
• Relax at a Bali Beach Club
• Spend time at Nusa Dua Beach
• Explore Ubud
• Enjoy a Christmas Day brunch at W Bali – Seminyak
• Chill at Banana Lounge
• Experience festive feasting at Potato Head Beach Club
• Stay at Padma Resort Ubud
• See the sea of golden marigolds at Besakih
• Take in the sunrise views atop Mount Batur–Kintamani.

Indulge in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles while strolling through the vibrant Christmas markets in Brussels. You will find the most Christmassy, cozy, and intimate atmosphere in all Brussels Christmas markets. The whole city becomes a fairytale destination during Christmas, filled with Christmas trees and fairy lights. You must get a Belgium visa from UAE to enjoy Christmas in Brussels.

Best things to do in Brussels, Belgium during Christmas:

• Visit the Brussels ‘Winter Wonders’ Christmas Market
• Experience the Christmas Market from above on the Ferris wheel
• Drink Vin Chaud or Chocolat Chaud
• Explore the city of Art Nouveau and the 9th Art
• Check out the Christmas Market on the Grand Place.

St. Petersberg in Russia is a hidden gem to celebrate Christmas. In St. Petersberg Christmas is celebrated on 7th January according to Julian, so plan your visit accordingly. Eyecatching Christmas decorations, steaming banyas, frozen canals, and chinking glasses of chilled vodka give plenty of reasons for you to visit this magical place for Christmas. Apply for a Russian tourist visa from Dubai to explore the Christmas festival in St. Petersberg.

Best things to do in St. Petersberg during Christmas:

• Visit Christmas markets
• Explore St. Isaac’s Cathedral
• Tour the Catherine Palace
• Check out the Christmas Fair on Pionerskaya Square
• Visit the Hermitage Museum
• Go ice skating
• Enjoy a Troika ride

Lapland has some of the most breathtaking and remote landscapes in the world. If you’re looking for one of the best Christmas getaways from Dubai in an Arctic wonderland, consider visiting Lapland. There is a magical environment in Lapland on Christmas day with beautiful lights, and decorations, making it suitable for family trips during Christmas. Get expert assistance from our team for a Finland visa to experience Christmas in Lapland.

Best things to do in Lapland, Finland during Christmas:

• Visit Santa Claus Village
• Reindeer sleigh ride
• Go for a Snowmobile ride, Husky Safari, Ice Karting, Ice Sculpting, and Fat Biking
• Visit the Ice Hotel in Lapland
• Watch Northern Lights
• Stay in Glass Igloo
• Go ice Fishing.

The city of Chicago is known to flex its majesty during the Christmas season. It is snow-covered and decorated with bright lights, wreaths, and Christmas trees. There are a number of events, festivals, and performances, along with amazing deals in most stores. Get expert consultation with a USA tourist visa from UAE to visit Chicago.

Best things to do in Chicago, USA during Christmas:

• Visit Lincoln Park Zoo
• Explore the Chicago Botanic Garden
• Discover the Morton Arboretum
• Enjoy Navy Pier
• Go ice skating
• See the Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum
• Explore the Chicago Christmas market
• Visit the Museum of Science.

Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland in Quebec City, with its charming Old Town decorated with lights and snow-covered streets. Quebec City at Christmas time is magical. With fluffy white snow, charming local shops, endless lights, and decorations Quebec City is a true winter wonderland and a perfect destination for Christmas. We provide expert assistance to get Canada tourist visa for UAE residents, so what are you waiting for?

Best things to do in Quebec City, Canada during Christmas:

• Visit the German Christmas Market
• Go tobogganing at Au 1884
• Enjoy skating at D’Youville
• Stroll through the Petit Champlain District
• Take the Old Quebec Food Tour
• Listen to Christmas carols at the Notre-Dame de Québec.

Whether you dream of a white Christmas or prefer a warm and sunny celebration, these top 30 Christmas getaways from Dubai offer something for everyone. From extravagant light displays and festive markets to unique cultural traditions, each destination promises a magical holiday experience. So pack your bags and make this Christmas one to remember by traveling to one of these amazing destinations from Dubai.

Contact us to get further travel assistance with your visa and Christmas holiday packages from Dubai to any place in the world.

TravNook team wishes you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year ahead!

Q: Where is the best place to go from Dubai to December?

A: To determine which is the best destination for you, you have to determine first:

• Your budget
• Duration of your holiday 
• The winter activities you want to experience 

When you decide on these points, you can choose one of the 30 best places in this blog post.

Q: Which is the cheapest country to visit from Dubai?

A: The most affordable destinations to visit during Christmas are Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Uzbekistan, and Sri Lanka.

Q: Which is the nearest European country to visit from Dubai?

A: Turkey is the closest European country to Dubai, you can expect a 3 to 4-hour flight time to reach Turkey from UAE. 

Q: What country is close to Dubai to visit during Christmas?

A: The best country near Dubai to visit during Christmas is Georgia.