Best Hotels for Christmas Holiday Abroad

The Christmas season is a time for joy, celebration, and creating lasting memories. What better way to embrace the festive spirit than by embarking on a Christmas holiday abroad? Whether you dream of snow-covered landscapes, charming European towns, or sun-kissed beaches, the perfect hotel can elevate your experience from memorable to magical. This guide presents a curated selection of the best hotels for a Christmas holiday abroad, offering a blend of luxury, festive ambiance, and unforgettable experiences. We’ll explore destinations across the globe, catering to various tastes and preferences, ensuring your Christmas getaway is nothing short of spectacular.

Luxury Escapes: Indulge in Festive Grandeur

For those seeking unparalleled luxury and pampering during their Christmas holiday, these hotels offer exquisite accommodations, world-class dining, and a touch of festive magic.

The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna, Austria

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Vienna at The Ritz-Carlton, a stunning hotel located on the city’s iconic Ring Boulevard. During Christmas, the hotel transforms into a winter wonderland, adorned with dazzling decorations and offering a range of festive activities. Indulge in a traditional Viennese Christmas market experience right on the hotel’s doorstep, savor exquisite Christmas menus in the hotel’s acclaimed restaurants, and unwind in the opulent spa. The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna, provides an unforgettable Christmas experience, blending timeless elegance with festive cheer.

The rooms and suites are elegantly appointed with plush furnishings, offering stunning views of the city. The hotel’s culinary offerings are exceptional, with several restaurants showcasing Austrian and international cuisine. The Christmas season brings special menus and festive events, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The spa provides a sanctuary for relaxation, offering a range of treatments to rejuvenate your body and mind. The hotel’s impeccable service and attention to detail ensure a seamless and luxurious stay.

Beyond the hotel’s luxurious amenities, Vienna itself is a magical destination during Christmas. The city’s Christmas markets are renowned for their festive atmosphere, offering a wide array of handcrafted gifts, traditional treats, and mulled wine. The city’s historic landmarks, such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Schönbrunn Palace, are beautifully decorated for the season, adding to the festive ambiance. A horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-covered streets is a truly enchanting experience.

The Plaza, New York City, USA

Experience the magic of Christmas in New York City at The Plaza, an iconic hotel synonymous with luxury and sophistication. Featured in countless movies and books, The Plaza embodies the spirit of the holiday season. The hotel’s grand lobby is transformed into a festive wonderland, with a towering Christmas tree and elaborate decorations. Enjoy afternoon tea in The Palm Court, indulge in a gourmet Christmas dinner at one of the hotel’s restaurants, and take advantage of the hotel’s prime location to explore New York City’s festive attractions.

The Plaza’s rooms and suites are beautifully decorated, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. The hotel’s culinary offerings are diverse and exquisite, with options ranging from casual dining to fine dining. The Christmas season brings special menus and festive events, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The hotel’s concierge service can assist with arranging tickets to Broadway shows, ice skating at Rockefeller Center, and exploring the city’s Christmas markets.

New York City is a vibrant and exciting destination during Christmas. The city’s Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is a must-see, as is the festive window displays along Fifth Avenue. The city’s Christmas markets offer a wide array of gifts and treats. A performance of the Nutcracker at Lincoln Center is a classic Christmas tradition. The Plaza’s central location makes it the perfect base for exploring all that New York City has to offer during the holiday season.

Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, France

Celebrate Christmas in the City of Lights at the Four Seasons Hotel George V, an epitome of Parisian elegance and luxury. The hotel is renowned for its stunning floral arrangements, impeccable service, and world-class dining. During Christmas, the hotel is transformed into a festive paradise, with dazzling decorations and a range of special events. Enjoy a gourmet Christmas dinner at Le Cinq, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, relax in the opulent spa, and explore the festive attractions of Paris.

The hotel’s rooms and suites are exquisitely decorated, offering stunning views of the city. The hotel’s culinary offerings are exceptional, with several restaurants showcasing French and international cuisine. The Christmas season brings special menus and festive events, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The spa provides a sanctuary for relaxation, offering a range of treatments to rejuvenate your body and mind. The hotel’s impeccable service and attention to detail ensure a seamless and luxurious stay.

Paris is a romantic and enchanting destination during Christmas. The city’s Christmas markets offer a wide array of gifts and treats. The Champs-Élysées is beautifully decorated with twinkling lights. A visit to the Eiffel Tower is a must, offering stunning views of the city. A boat ride along the Seine River is a romantic way to experience the city’s festive ambiance. The Four Seasons Hotel George V provides the perfect base for exploring all that Paris has to offer during the holiday season.

Charming Getaways: Embrace Festive Traditions

For those seeking a more intimate and traditional Christmas experience, these hotels offer cozy accommodations, festive activities, and a chance to immerse yourself in local traditions.

Hotel de l’Europe, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Experience the charm of Amsterdam during Christmas at Hotel de l’Europe, a luxurious hotel located on the banks of the Amstel River. The hotel is known for its elegant decor, exceptional service, and stunning views. During Christmas, the hotel is transformed into a festive wonderland, with dazzling decorations and a range of special events. Enjoy a traditional Dutch Christmas dinner, explore the city’s Christmas markets, and take a canal cruise through the festively lit waterways.

The hotel’s rooms and suites are elegantly appointed, offering stunning views of the Amstel River. The hotel’s culinary offerings are exceptional, with several restaurants showcasing Dutch and international cuisine. The Christmas season brings special menus and festive events, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The hotel’s concierge service can assist with arranging canal cruises, museum visits, and exploring the city’s Christmas markets.

Amsterdam is a charming and festive destination during Christmas. The city’s Christmas markets offer a wide array of gifts and treats. The canals are beautifully lit up for the season. A visit to the Rijksmuseum is a must, showcasing Dutch Masters. A canal cruise is a relaxing way to experience the city’s festive ambiance. Hotel de l’Europe provides the perfect base for exploring all that Amsterdam has to offer during the holiday season.

The Goring, London, United Kingdom

Celebrate a traditional British Christmas at The Goring, a luxurious hotel located near Buckingham Palace. The hotel is known for its impeccable service, elegant decor, and royal connections. During Christmas, the hotel is transformed into a festive paradise, with dazzling decorations and a range of special events. Enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner, attend a Christmas carol service, and explore the festive attractions of London.

The hotel’s rooms and suites are beautifully decorated, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. The hotel’s culinary offerings are exceptional, with several restaurants showcasing British and international cuisine. The Christmas season brings special menus and festive events, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The hotel’s concierge service can assist with arranging tickets to West End shows, visits to historical landmarks, and exploring London’s Christmas markets.

London is a vibrant and exciting destination during Christmas. The city’s Christmas lights are spectacular, particularly along Oxford Street and Regent Street. The Christmas markets offer a wide array of gifts and treats. A performance of a Christmas pantomime is a classic British tradition. A visit to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is a must. The Goring provides the perfect base for exploring all that London has to offer during the holiday season.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada

Experience a magical Christmas in the Canadian Rockies at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a stunning hotel located on the shores of Lake Louise. The hotel is known for its breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and outdoor activities. During Christmas, the hotel is transformed into a winter wonderland, with dazzling decorations and a range of special events. Enjoy ice skating on the frozen lake, skiing in the nearby mountains, and cozying up by the fire with a hot chocolate.

The hotel’s rooms and suites offer stunning views of Lake Louise and the surrounding mountains. The hotel’s culinary offerings are exceptional, with several restaurants showcasing Canadian and international cuisine. The Christmas season brings special menus and festive events, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The hotel offers a range of winter activities, including ice skating, skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding.

Lake Louise is a breathtaking destination during Christmas. The frozen lake is transformed into a magical ice rink. The surrounding mountains are covered in snow, creating a stunning backdrop. A sleigh ride through the snow-covered forest is a truly enchanting experience. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise provides the perfect base for exploring all that the Canadian Rockies have to offer during the holiday season.

Tropical Delights: Escape to Sunshine and Warmth

For those seeking a Christmas escape to warmer climates, these hotels offer luxurious accommodations, stunning beaches, and a festive ambiance in a tropical paradise.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, Maldives

Celebrate Christmas in paradise at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, a luxurious resort located on a private island in the Maldives. The resort is known for its overwater villas, pristine beaches, and exceptional service. During Christmas, the resort offers a range of festive activities, including special Christmas dinners, beach barbecues, and live entertainment. Enjoy snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, relaxing on the white-sand beaches, and indulging in spa treatments.

The resort’s overwater villas offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Each villa features a private plunge pool, direct access to the ocean, and luxurious amenities. The resort’s culinary offerings are exceptional, with several restaurants showcasing international cuisine. The Christmas season brings special menus and festive events, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The resort offers a range of water sports activities, including snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing.

The Maldives is a tropical paradise, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. A Christmas spent in the Maldives is a truly unforgettable experience, offering a chance to escape the cold and enjoy the sunshine. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort provides the perfect setting for a luxurious and relaxing Christmas holiday.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii, USA

Experience a Hawaiian Christmas at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, a luxurious resort located on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. The resort is known for its stunning beaches, world-class golf course, and exceptional service. During Christmas, the resort offers a range of festive activities, including special Christmas dinners, Hawaiian luau performances, and visits from Santa Claus. Enjoy swimming in the turquoise waters, relaxing on the white-sand beaches, and exploring the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island.

The resort’s rooms and suites are luxurious and spacious, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The resort’s culinary offerings are exceptional, with several restaurants showcasing Hawaiian and international cuisine. The Christmas season brings special menus and festive events, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The resort offers a range of activities, including golf, tennis, water sports, and spa treatments.

Hawaii is a tropical paradise, offering stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic landscapes. A Christmas spent in Hawaii is a truly unforgettable experience, offering a chance to escape the cold and enjoy the sunshine. The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai provides the perfect setting for a luxurious and relaxing Christmas holiday.

Sandy Lane, Barbados

Escape to the Caribbean for a Christmas celebration at Sandy Lane, a renowned luxury resort in Barbados. Known for its immaculate beaches, world-class golf, and unparalleled service, Sandy Lane offers an unforgettable festive getaway. Enjoy gourmet Christmas dinners, festive parties, and relaxing spa treatments, all while basking in the warm Caribbean sun.

Sandy Lane’s rooms and suites are elegantly furnished, offering stunning ocean views and private balconies or patios. The resort boasts several exceptional restaurants, serving everything from fine dining to casual beachfront fare. During Christmas, special menus and events are planned, including caroling, tree lighting, and visits from Santa Claus. The resort also offers a wide range of activities, including golf, tennis, water sports, and excursions to explore the island.

Barbados is a vibrant and beautiful island, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Spend your days lounging on the beach, swimming in the turquoise waters, or exploring the island’s lush interior. In the evenings, enjoy the lively nightlife, savor delicious Caribbean cuisine, and soak up the festive atmosphere. Sandy Lane provides an idyllic setting for a memorable Christmas holiday in the sun.

Unique Experiences: Create Unforgettable Memories

For those seeking a more unconventional Christmas experience, these hotels offer unique settings, unusual activities, and a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Icehotel, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Experience a truly unique Christmas at the Icehotel, a hotel made entirely of ice and snow, located in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden. The hotel is rebuilt every year, with each room featuring unique ice sculptures created by artists from around the world. During Christmas, the hotel offers a range of festive activities, including ice sculpting workshops, Northern Lights tours, and reindeer sleigh rides. Enjoy a traditional Swedish Christmas dinner, sleep in a room made of ice, and marvel at the beauty of the Arctic landscape.

The hotel’s rooms are made entirely of ice and snow, with temperatures ranging from -5 to -8 degrees Celsius. Guests sleep in thermal sleeping bags on reindeer hides. The hotel also features a warm building with standard hotel rooms. The hotel’s culinary offerings include a restaurant serving traditional Swedish cuisine. The Christmas season brings special menus and festive events, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The hotel offers a range of activities, including ice sculpting, Northern Lights tours, and dog sledding.

Jukkasjärvi is a small village located in the Arctic Circle. The village is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Northern Lights. A Christmas spent at the Icehotel is a truly unforgettable experience, offering a chance to experience the magic of the Arctic winter. The Icehotel provides a unique and memorable setting for a Christmas holiday.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland

Spend Christmas under the Northern Lights at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, a unique resort located in Finnish Lapland. The resort offers a range of accommodations, including glass igloos, log cabins, and snow igloos. During Christmas, the resort offers a range of festive activities, including reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and visits from Santa Claus. Enjoy a traditional Finnish Christmas dinner, sleep under the Northern Lights, and experience the magic of Lapland.

The resort’s glass igloos offer stunning views of the Northern Lights. The log cabins are cozy and comfortable, with fireplaces and saunas. The snow igloos are a unique and adventurous experience. The resort’s culinary offerings include a restaurant serving traditional Finnish cuisine. The Christmas season brings special menus and festive events, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The resort offers a range of activities, including reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and snowmobiling.

Lapland is a magical destination during Christmas, offering a chance to experience the beauty of the Arctic winter and the wonder of the Northern Lights. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort provides the perfect setting for a unique and unforgettable Christmas holiday.

Singita Boulders Lodge, South Africa

For a truly unique Christmas experience, consider a safari adventure at Singita Boulders Lodge in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Reserve. Swap snow for sunshine and trade carols for the sounds of the African bush. Enjoy luxury accommodations, exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, and a festive Christmas dinner under the stars.

Singita Boulders Lodge offers luxurious suites with private plunge pools and stunning views of the Sand River. The lodge’s expert guides will lead you on game drives to spot the Big Five and other incredible wildlife. During Christmas, the lodge creates a festive atmosphere with special decorations, gourmet meals, and cultural performances. You can also participate in community outreach programs to give back during the holiday season.

A Christmas safari is an unforgettable experience, offering a chance to connect with nature and witness the beauty of the African wilderness. Singita Boulders Lodge provides a luxurious and authentic safari experience, making it a perfect choice for a unique Christmas getaway.

Budget-Friendly Options: Festive Fun Without Breaking the Bank

Celebrating Christmas abroad doesn’t have to break the bank. These hotels offer comfortable accommodations, festive atmospheres, and convenient locations at more affordable prices.

Generator Hostel, various locations (e.g., Paris, Amsterdam, London)

Generator Hostels offer stylish and social accommodations in several major European cities. While technically hostels, they often feature private rooms with en-suite bathrooms that are comparable to budget hotels. During Christmas, many Generator Hostels host festive events, such as Christmas markets, themed parties, and holiday dinners.

Generator Hostels provide a budget-friendly option for travelers looking for a social and vibrant atmosphere. They offer a range of room types, from dormitories to private rooms. The hostels also feature common areas, such as bars, lounges, and game rooms, where guests can mingle and socialize. The central locations of Generator Hostels make them a convenient base for exploring the city’s Christmas attractions.

Hotel Ibis, various locations

Ibis hotels are a well-known budget hotel chain with locations around the world. They offer clean and comfortable accommodations at affordable prices. While they may not offer the same level of luxury as other hotels on this list, they provide a reliable and convenient option for budget-conscious travelers. During Christmas, some Ibis hotels may offer special packages or festive decorations.

Ibis hotels offer a no-frills experience, focusing on providing comfortable and clean rooms. They typically feature a restaurant and bar, and some may offer free breakfast. The hotels are often located near public transportation, making it easy to explore the city’s Christmas attractions. Ibis hotels are a practical choice for travelers who prioritize affordability and convenience.

Airbnb, various locations

Airbnb offers a wide range of accommodations, from apartments to private rooms, in cities around the world. During Christmas, you can find festive and affordable options on Airbnb, such as cozy apartments with Christmas decorations or entire houses that can accommodate families or groups. Airbnb also allows you to connect with local hosts, who can provide recommendations for Christmas activities and events.

Airbnb offers a flexible and personalized accommodation option. You can choose from a variety of properties based on your budget, location preferences, and travel style. Airbnb hosts often provide amenities such as kitchens, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi. Staying in an Airbnb can also provide a more immersive and authentic travel experience, allowing you to live like a local during your Christmas holiday.

Planning Your Christmas Holiday: Tips and Considerations

Planning a Christmas holiday abroad requires careful consideration and preparation. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and memorable trip:

• Book in advance: Christmas is a popular travel season, so it’s essential to book your flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best prices and availability.
• Check visa requirements: Make sure you have the necessary visas and travel documents for your chosen destination.
• Pack appropriately: Pack for the weather conditions of your destination, including warm clothing, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes.
• Plan your itinerary: Research the Christmas attractions and events in your chosen destination and plan your itinerary accordingly.
• Budget wisely: Set a budget for your trip and stick to it, taking into account flights, accommodations, food, activities, and souvenirs.
• Learn basic phrases: Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can enhance your travel experience and show respect for the local culture.
• Be aware of local customs: Research the local customs and traditions of your chosen destination and be mindful of cultural differences.
• Stay safe: Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself from theft and other crimes.
• Purchase travel insurance: Purchase travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events, such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
• Enjoy the festive spirit: Embrace the Christmas spirit and immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.

Conclusion: Create Your Dream Christmas Holiday

A Christmas holiday abroad is an opportunity to create lasting memories and experience the magic of the festive season in a new and exciting way. Whether you choose a luxury escape, a charming getaway, a tropical delight, or a unique adventure, the perfect hotel can enhance your experience and make your Christmas holiday truly unforgettable. By considering your preferences, budget, and travel style, you can find the ideal hotel to create your dream Christmas holiday abroad. So, start planning your trip today and prepare to celebrate Christmas in style!