5 Magical Holiday Destinations to Visit This Year

As our summer trips come to an end, I can’t help but admire how each season brings out such a different travel experience. Summer is full of energy, adventure, and cocktails on the beach. And don’t forget about the crystal clear turquoise water on the Mediterranean. Our Mystery Trip groups this summer have gone to so many stunning destinations and made lifelong friends, while taking in the simplicity of what summer means to various cultures.

But as it comes to an end, the fall decorations come out and stores start to stock their shelves early with Christmas decorations. Around this time, I start daydreaming about the Christmas markets, festivities and holiday dishes around the world. It’s a time of year that lights a different kind of energy in me. November and December are magical times of the year to travel. The the streets are lined with lights, locals are out selling their handmade goods, and the smell of churros and mulled wine fills the air. 

Sound luxurious? Grab a cup of tea and keep reading to transport yourself to our favorite holiday destinations!

Hesse, Germany

Germany does the holidays right. Hesse is located just a short train or car ride from Frankfurt, and might have some of the most extravagant and beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. The town is sprawled with Christmas markets, the traditional buildings are lined with lights, and the smell of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fill the crisp winter air.

You will not leave the market hungry after enjoying crispy potato pancakes and sausages. And don’t forget the gingerbread, baked apples and steamed dumplings. On your way our, pick up some local ceramics and jewelry to bring home with you!

Prague, Czech Republic

Feeling adventurous? The ice skating rink in the historic old town is waiting! The enchanting city of Prague turns into a story book around the holidays.

Browse the Christmas markets, indulge in the local sweets, and stay for a while to listen to the Christmas carols sung by locals. Tired from shopping all day? Head to the ballet to see the Nutcracker, and then grab dinner at one of the many food stands around the city.

If you’re lucky, Prague may even get a sprinkling of snow, making you wonder if you might be dreaming.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna comes alive during Christmas as snow, lights, and decorations fill the city. Visiting Vienna during the holidays feels as if you’re in a fairytale.

Visit one of the many Christmas markets and find unique handmade gifts to bring home to your loved ones. Grab a steaming mug of something warm, such as hot chocolate or mulled wine, and notice the happiness that fills the air of the Vienna Christmas markets.

Hungry? Don’t leave Vienna without trying one of the many traditional Christmas cookies or Apple Strudel.

Puglia, Italy

In December, the squares of Puglia fill with Christmas Markets, the charming streets are decorated with lights, and both locals and tourists head out to enjoy the delicious seasonal delicacies, such as cartellate, pesce di pasta di mandorla and purciadduzzi. Puglia is known for their live display of the Nativity Scene, which you can find in various locations around the city.

Puglis is a popular destination all year round, but there is something about Puglia in Christmas that you just can’t miss in your lifetime.

Malaga, Spain

Ah, Malaga. One of my favorite Spanish cities. This coastal town is just as charming in summer as it is winter. While in summer you will find people heading to the beach by day, Malaga is such a special place to visit during the holidays. Mid November, the city lines their streets with extravagant lights making the simple stroll through the city a magical experience.

Spend your days shopping away under the lights, grab some churros and hot chocolate, and then explore all of the tiny cobblestone alleyways leading you to yet another plaza Christmas market.

Have we got you thinking about spending your holidays in Europe? Don’t worry, we have the same idea. So pick up your phone, call your friends or family, and propose a new way of spending the holidays with a Mystery Trip to a magical Christmas fairytale destination.

Fill out the questionnaire, pay your deposit, and let us plan a winter vacation you’ll never forget!