Green Sun Travel

Best Places to Travel with Family For Christmas: Where to Create Magical Memories

The holiday season is a time for families to come together, celebrate traditions, and create lasting memories. What better way to make this Christmas truly special than by embarking on a family adventure to a magical destination? 

In this blog post, Green Sun Travel will take you on a journey to discover the best places to travel with family for Christmas, where you can experience the never-before joy and magic of the season.

Planning For the Best places to Travel with Family for Christmas 

Before we dive into the best places to travel with family for Christmas, let’s start with some essential planning tips to ensure your family Christmas vacation goes off without a hitch. Whether you’re traveling near or far, these steps will help you prepare for the holiday of a lifetime.

Setting a Budget

First things first, determine your budget for the trip. Knowing how much you can spend will guide your destination choices and help you make informed decisions throughout the planning process.

Choosing Travel Dates

Selecting the right travel dates is crucial. Do you want to be away for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, or would you prefer to travel before or after the holiday? Make sure your chosen dates align with your family’s preferences and obligations.

Booking Accommodations

Finding family-friendly accommodations is key. Look for hotels or vacation rentals that offer ample space, amenities, and perhaps even special holiday packages.

Packing Essentials for a Winter Holiday

Packing for a winter holiday requires careful planning. Don’t forget warm clothing, layers, and any specific gear you might need for winter activities.

Top 5 best places to travel with family for Christmas

Now, let’s embark on a journey to discover the top five family-friendly Christmas destinations around the world. Each of these enchanting places offers a unique blend of holiday magic and memorable experiences for families of all sizes and ages. Whether you’re dreaming of snowy adventures or basking in the warmth of the season, there’s a perfect destination for you.

1. Magical Christmas in Lapland, Finland

Experience the North Pole Magic: Lapland, often dubbed the official home of Santa Claus, transforms into a fairytale realm during the Christmas season. Your family can meet Santa himself and his trusty reindeer, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

A Dance of Lights: Northern Lights Viewing: One of the most breathtaking spectacles in Lapland is the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Imagine witnessing this natural wonder as it lights up the Arctic skies, leaving you and your family in awe.

Santa Claus Village: Step into the magical Santa Claus Village, where you’ll find Santa’s workshop, post office, and even the Arctic Circle. Your kids can send their wish lists directly to Santa and receive a reply with the official Arctic Circle postmark.

2. Enchanting Christmas in New York City, USA

Iconic Winter Wonderland: New York City has always made the list “The best places to travel with family for Christmas”, renowned for its dazzling holiday decorations and festive atmosphere. Ice skating in Central Park’s Wollman Rink, framed by the city’s skyline, is an experience your family will cherish.

Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Magic: Stroll down Fifth Avenue to witness elaborate window displays at world-famous department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue. It’s a visual feast that will transport you to a world of holiday enchantment.

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree: The lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a spectacular event, often featuring celebrity performances. Be part of the crowd and feel the magic as the tree illuminates the heart of Manhattan.

3. Charming Christmas in Vienna, Austria

Classical Christmas Concerts: Vienna, the city of music, comes alive during the holiday season with classical concerts. Experience the enchantment of Mozart, Strauss, and other renowned composers in historic venues.

Christkindlmarkt Delights: Explore Vienna’s traditional Christmas markets, known as Christkindlmarkt. Sip on warm mulled wine, savor Austrian delicacies, and shop for handcrafted gifts in a charming, festive setting.

Romantic Carriage Rides: Embrace the romance of the season with a horse-drawn carriage ride through Vienna’s elegant streets, adorned with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations.

4. Sunny Christmas in Tenerife, Spain

Warm Weather and Beaches: If you’re seeking a sunny Christmas escape, Tenerife in the Canary Islands is the ideal destination. Enjoy mild temperatures, golden beaches, and the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Family-Friendly Adventures: Tenerife offers a plethora of family-friendly adventures, including visits to water parks, nature reserves, and thrilling outdoor activities like zip-lining and hiking.

Canary Island Traditions: Immerse yourself in the unique holiday traditions of the Canary Islands, including vibrant street parades and lively celebrations that showcase the island’s rich culture.

5. Traditional Christmas in Quebec City, Canada

European Charm in North America: Quebec City’s Old Town is a treasure trove of European charm, especially during the holiday season. Cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a blanket of snow create a picturesque backdrop.

Toboggan Slides and Snowshoeing: Glide down toboggan slides at Dufferin Terrace or explore the winter wonderland on snowshoes. These activities provide fun for the whole family against the stunning backdrop of Quebec City.

Québécois German Christmas Market: Experience the warmth of Quebec’s German Christmas Market, where you can shop for handcrafted gifts, indulge in festive treats, and immerse yourself in the jovial atmosphere.

Travel Tips for Families

Traveling with family during the holiday season can be a rewarding adventure, but it comes with its unique set of considerations. To ensure your family Christmas vacation goes smoothly, here are some detailed travel tips to keep in mind:

Traveling with Children

• Entertainment Essentials: Pack a variety of entertainment options for children, including books, tablets, games, and coloring materials. Having distractions readily available can make long journeys more enjoyable for kids.
• Snacks and Refreshments: Carry a selection of snacks and drinks that your children love. Having familiar and comforting snacks on hand can be a lifesaver, especially when travel delays occur.
• Child-Friendly Accommodations: Choose accommodations that cater to families with children. Look for features such as connecting rooms, childproofing options, and, if needed, cribs or rollaway beds.
• Adjusting to Time Zones: If you’re traveling across multiple time zones, help your children adjust to the new schedule gradually. Start shifting meal and sleep times a few days before departure to minimize jet lag.

Packing Tips for Winter Travel

• Layered Clothing: Pack clothing in layers, allowing you to adapt to varying temperatures. Thermal undergarments, sweaters, and a waterproof outer layer are essential for staying warm and dry.
• Winter Gear: Don’t forget winter essentials like gloves, scarves, hats, and insulated boots. Depending on your destination, you might also need snowshoes or ice cleats for added safety.
• Travel-sized Toiletries: To save space, opt for travel-sized toiletries and refillable containers. Many accommodations offer standard toiletries, but it’s convenient to have your favorites on hand.
• Chargers and Adapters: Ensure you have chargers for all electronic devices and any necessary power adapters or converters. Keeping devices charged is crucial, especially when traveling with children who rely on them for entertainment.

Safety Precautions During the Holiday Season

• Stay Vigilant: In the best places to travel with family for Christmas, they are usually very crowded areas, be vigilant about your belongings, especially in bustling holiday markets or public transportation. Consider using a money belt or a secure backpack to deter pickpockets.
• Emergency Contacts: Carry a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and medical facilities, in case you need assistance while traveling.
• Health Precautions: Be aware of any specific health precautions for your destination, such as vaccinations or health advisories. Ensure you have necessary medications and a basic first-aid kit.
• Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers unexpected events, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
• Weather Updates: Keep an eye on weather forecasts for your destination, especially if you’re traveling to a place with unpredictable winter weather. Stay informed about any travel disruptions caused by adverse conditions.
• Secure Accommodations: Prioritize accommodations with secure locks and safety features. Verify that windows and doors are secure, and use hotel safes for valuables.

Conclusion

As you embark on your adventure to one of these best places to travel with family for Christmas, remember that the joy of spending quality time together is the greatest gift of all. Each of these destinations offers a unique and unforgettable experience, making your holiday season truly magical.

We’d love to hear about your suggestion for the best places to travel with family for Christmas and any tips you have to share. Feel free to leave comments or questions below, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need further information or assistance in planning your holiday getaway.