Discover the top Christmas and New Year celebrations for 2025, from NYC and London to Tallinn, Salzburg, and Quebec City. Your essential festive travel guide.

The festive season brings unbeatable magic, glowing city streets, Christmas markets, concerts, fireworks, and winter charm.
Whether you love world-famous celebrations or prefer cozy, snow-filled old towns, the 2025 holiday season has something for everyone.

Here’s your Voyagers Info Festive Travel Guide 2025, covering global icons like NYC, London, and Vienna, plus hidden gems like Tallinn, Salzburg, and Quebec City.

1. New York City, USA – The World’s Most Iconic Holiday Destination

Few cities celebrate Christmas and New Year like NYC. December 2025 will again turn the city into a glowing spectacle.

Top 2025 Experiences:

• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
• Bryant Park Winter Village
• 5th Avenue Window Displays
• Times Square Ball Drop (Dec 31, 2025)
  

Why Visit in 2025:
The city continues to expand its winter village experiences and immersive holiday pop-ups.

2. London, UK – A Timeless European Christmas Classic

London’s festive season in 2025 brings beautiful lights and iconic December celebrations.

Top 2025 Experiences:

• Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
• Regent Street and Oxford Street Lights
• Covent Garden installations
• Thames New Year Fireworks (expected Dec 31, 2025)
  

Why Visit in 2025:
London continues to invest in large-scale light trails and food markets.

3. Vienna, Austria – Elegant, Musical, and Quintessentially Christmas

Vienna’s 2025 Christmas season means classical concerts, sparkling palaces, and nostalgic markets.

Top 2025 Experiences:

• Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt
• Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market
• Advent Concerts
• Vienna New Year’s Eve Trail (Dec 31, 2025)
  

Why Visit in 2025:
Vienna’s markets consistently rank among Europe’s best.

Hidden Gems for Christmas 2025

4. Tallinn, Estonia – A Medieval Christmas Wonderland

Tallinn’s Old Town looks like a real-life Christmas postcard in December 2025.

Highlights:

• Historic Town Hall Square Market
• Traditional Estonian holiday treats
• Snowy cobblestone streets
  

Why Visit in 2025:
Tallinn maintains one of Europe’s most authentic medieval-style Christmas atmospheres.

5. Salzburg, Austria – Classical, Cozy, and Magical

Salzburg’s 2025 festive season is designed for peace, music, and culture.

Highlights:

• Cathedral Square Christmas Market
• “Silent Night” concerts
• Snowy Fortress views
  

Why Visit in 2025:
Perfect for those who want a slower, more romantic Christmas experience.

6. Quebec City, Canada – Europe Without Crossing the Atlantic

Quebec City is one of the most underrated holiday destinations, especially in 2025 when the city expands its winter festivities.

Highlights:

• German Christmas Market
• Festive Old Quebec lights
• New Year’s Eve celebrations at Grande Allée
  

Why Visit in 2025:
Expect enhanced market zones and winter activities.

Top New Year’s Eve Celebrations to Welcome 2026

7. Sydney, Australia – First Major Fireworks of 2026

Sydney rings in the New Year before most of the world.

Highlights:

• Sydney Harbour Fireworks
• Harbour Cruises
• Outdoor concerts
  

8. Dubai, UAE – A Spectacular New Year Celebration

Dubai delivers one of the most extravagant NYE shows every year.

Highlights:

• Burj Khalifa fireworks
• Palm Jumeirah shows
• Concerts and waterfront parties
  

9. Edinburgh, Scotland -The Historic Hogmanay Festival

Hogmanay 2025 is expected to draw thousands for traditional Scottish festivities.

Highlights:

• Torchlight Procession
• Street parties
• Fireworks over Edinburgh Castle
  

Festive Travel Tips for New Year 2026

 ✔ Book flights and hotels early (December 2025 is a high-travel year)
✔ Use eSIMs for seamless connectivity
✔ Pack thermals and waterproof gear for Europe/Canada
✔ Avoid peak dates (Dec 22–26 & Dec 30–Jan 1)
✔ Check official city websites for updates

Happy Voyaging!

FAQs: Christmas & New Year Travel 2025

1. What is the best city for Christmas in 2025?

Vienna, London, and Tallinn remain top choices due to markets, concerts, and festive ambiance.

2. What are the best New Year’s destinations for 2025?

Sydney, Dubai, Edinburgh, New York City, and London.

3. Are Christmas markets open in 2025?

Yes, Europe’s major markets typically run from mid-November to late December.

4. When should I book my holiday travel for 2025?

For the best prices, book flights by September-October. For hotels, book as early as possible.

5. What should I pack for winter travel in 2025?

Thermals, layered clothing, snow-resistant shoes, touchscreen gloves, and power banks.