Best Cities to Spend Christmas

Imagine a Christmas this year with festive lights, cosy markets and thick snow! Take this Christmas as an opportunity to get away and make unforgettable memories by booking your flights with us. We have come up with some city suggestions to visit this Christmas to help take planning off your plate.

Why Go Away During Christmas?

It's time to ask yourself the big question, 'Why go away for Christmas?' Although some of us prefer to stay at home with friends and family, we think every once in a while it's nice to get away for Christmas. Here's why we think going away for Christmas can be a great idea
New traditions.

Often, the biggest fear of going away over Christmas is just because it’s so different to what most of us are used to. But once you take the leap of faith and experience a Christmas away from home, often people fall in love with the relaxing nature of a Christmas where all they need to worry about is if they’ve peeled enough potatoes.

Time to Relax and Enjoy

After weeks and weeks of preparation for the big day, blink twice and it’s all over. Then what’s left? Five days where you are waiting around until New Year's Eve arrives. You spend the best part of a week opening presents, eating large portions and listening to Christmas classics and all that’s left to do is tidy up and back to reality.

Well, you can avoid all of this by going away. When Christmas day comes to an end, you won’t be left with any anti-climactic emptiness, instead, you’ll be able to explore your new location, find fun new things to do, be with the ones you love and enjoy Christmas as a whole holiday rather than a single, hectic day.

You can explore a different city

Every city has its holiday customs and traditions, from holiday parades to unique decorations. Visiting a new place lets you experience how other cultures celebrate Christmas, whether it’s the centuries-old traditions of Vienna or the modern holiday lights in NYC.

A way to save money

Whilst going away may seem like a costly expense, it doesn’t have to be! Whether you’re staying away for just a couple of days or a week, it doesn’t have to cost a lot – it’s the memories that are the most important thing to focus on! Maybe instead of buying gifts for everyone, you can treat them to a short getaway over the holidays. Not only that, but you can also avoid the rush of the Christmas shoppers!  

Here at Alternative Airlines, we allow you to book your flights with our Buy Now, Pay Later options. Take the opportunity to save money this Christmas and pay for your flights in easy and manageable instalments.

5 Top Cities to Visit Over Christmas

As Christmas approaches, let's look at the most festive cities to visit during December.

New York City, USA

It's no surprise that New York City is one of the best cities during Christmas. Think of all the iconic Christmas movies filmed in New York, such as Elf, Home Alone 2, Something from Tiffany's, All I Want for Christmas, and many more!

New York City is a dream destination to visit at Christmas, it draws people from all over to come and experience the colourful displays and holiday magic. Here is why it's worth spending Christmas in NYC.

The Rockefeller Tree

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a large Christmas tree placed annually at Rockefeller Center, in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, United States. Visiting this tourist attraction over the ice rink is a bucket list experience!

Central Park

Central Park in winter offers an escape from the busy city and feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. Can you think of a better experience than strolling through a snow-covered park, with horse-drawn carriages at Christmas?

Shopping

When walking down the street in New York City, don't be surprised to see decorated shop windows with festive lights and huge displays. This city is the perfect place to get your Christmas shopping done and take in the holiday spirit.

Christmas Markets

New York’s holiday markets, such as the Union Square Holiday Market and the Bryant Park Winter Village, bring a joyful flair to the city. These markets are filled with stalls selling handmade crafts, unique gifts, holiday treats, and hot beverages, perfect for last-minute shopping or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere.

How to get to New York City at Christmas

Depending on where you are in the world, there are several ways to get to New York City, including flying, taking a train, or taking a bus. New York City has three major airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

JFK is the largest and closest to New York City, while EWR is the second largest and is the main international airport in New Jersey. Many airlines offer direct flights to New York City from the UK, including London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Manchester.

Airlines that fly to New York for Christmas include American Airlines, United Airways, Delta, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. For more information on flights to New York City, please visit our page.

Tips for visiting New York City during Christmas

• When visiting New York at Christmas, make sure to pack warm clothes such as a coat, scarf, hoodie and a hat due to the cold weather and possible chance of snow. Check the weather here to stay updated.
• Taxis can be expensive therefore, use the subway as much as possible to make your money last and avoid scams.
• Compare prices from different states/ cities to determine which flights are cheaper when flying to New York for Christmas.

Prague, Czech Republic

There are many reasons to visit Prague, Czechia however, the best time to visit is Christmas without a doubt! Whether you are visiting the Christmas shows, ice skating or experiencing the displays, you are guaranteed a magical trip. Let's see what Prague has to offer and why it's so popular during Christmas...

Winter Atmosphere

Visiting Prague during Christmas is like stepping into a fairytale, with its wonderful architecture, cobblestone streets, and festive markets that turn the city into a winter wonderland. When visiting the city of Prague, seeing it with a winter backdrop just makes it 10x better.

Concerts and Events

Prague’s beautiful churches, like St. Vitus Cathedral and the Klementinum, host holiday concerts featuring classical music and traditional carols. Many performances are held in historic halls and churches, making them unforgettable experiences.

Christmas Markets

Prague’s most famous Christmas market is held in Old Town Square. It features a stunningly decorated Christmas tree, traditional wooden stalls, and live music. Visitors can browse for unique gifts and crafts and enjoy holiday treats.

Affordable Holiday Getaway

Compared to other European cities, Prague is relatively affordable, making it a great choice for travellers looking for a budget-friendly Christmas experience. Make sure to book your flights sooner rather than later as prices for plane tickets during the holidays normally rise during the autumn.

How to get to Prague at Christmas

Getting to Prague during Christmas can be straightforward and enjoyable with some planning. Here are key tips and options to help you reach Prague smoothly: Make sure to search for Flights to Prague (Václav Havel Airport PRG). Prague’s main international airport is Václav Havel Airport, located about 30 minutes from the city centre.

Flights to Prague tend to fill up quickly around the holidays, so it’s best to book early for the best prices and options. Since Prague is a popular Christmas destination, allow extra time for airport security, train stations, and other transport hubs.

Airlines that fly to Prague include easyJet, Swiss, KLM and Ryan Air. For more information on airlines we ticket, visit our page.

Tips for visiting Prague during Christmas

• When visiting Prague during December make sure to try traditional Czech Christmas foods such as trdelník (a sweet, rolled pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon), vánočka (Czech Christmas bread), gingerbread cookies, and grilled sausages.
• Attend a Christmas concert as Prague is famous for its classical music, and many historic churches and concert halls host Christmas performances.
• Temperatures in December often range from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F) but can feel colder with wind and humidity. Dress appropriately and pack warm clothes.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna's Christmas markets are some of the most famous in Europe! Vienna has many Christmas markets, including the Viennese Dream Christmas Market in front of City Hall, and the market at Schönbrunn Palace. December is the best time of year to visit and experience the Christmas lights, ice skating and shopping.

Advent Concerts

Vienna fills with the sound of concerts in November and December, and not just the regular special performances. They are designed to offer a taste of light classical Viennese music for visitors. Make sure to visit St. Stephen's Cathedral and Capuchin Church as they are popular venues for Advent concerts featuring Christmas carols and festive music.

Sightseeing

A sightseeing tour can help you make the most of your trip by finding out popular food spots. Special holiday tours also highlight various Vienna winter attractions, including Christmas market tours. Vienna loves to decorate for Christmas. The most famous decoration is the large red bow that lights up the corner of the department store Popp & Kretschmer.

Ice Skating

When visiting Vienna, it's a great opportunity to get involved with some ice skating during the winter season. Popular ice skating attractions for both tourists and the locals, include Wiener Eislauf-Verein and Vienna Ice World. Make sure to wrap up warm as temperatures struggle to break past 32°F (0°C).

Major Markets

If you are looking to buy Christmas gifts or try some delicious food then head over to the markets in Vienna this December! Lots of Christmas markets in Vienna have great settings, however, the Karlsplatz version has a great view of the Baroque Karlskirche church. This market offers locally-produced arts and crafts, organic food, high-quality gifts and kids' toys.

The Belvedere Christmas market is another favourite due to its romantic setting where you have a view of the palace and can sip mulled wine whilst listening to live music.

How to get to Vienna at Christmas

If you are planning on visiting Vienna this Christmas then make sure you book in advance as it's peak season. At Alternative Airlines, you can use our Best Fare Finder Tool to search for the cheapest flights!

Make sure to search for flights arriving in Vienna International Airport (VIE). You can either get a train, bus or taxi from the airport to the city centre. A non-stop train that takes passengers from the airport to the city centre in 16 minutes. The CAT runs every 30 minutes, including on public holidays. Vienna Airport buses go directly to the city centre and taxis are available 24/7.

Airlines that offer direct flights from the UK to Vienna International Airport (VIE) include British Airways, Austrian Airlines, Ryanair, and Wizz Air.

Tips for visiting Vienna during Christmas

• Try out the locals 'Christmas punch' Weihnachtspunsch at one of the markets
• Dress up warm as Vienna is very cold in December with temperatures often near freezing. Make sure to bring gloves, hats and scarves.
• Some attractions and restaurants may have reduced hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so plan and confirm the hours of key places you want to visit

Nuremberg, Germany

Visit Nuremberg in Germany to see the world-famous, traditional Christmas markets in Germany. Did you know that more than two million visitors each year and some 200 select vendors set up incredible displays? Don't miss out on trying the mulled wine, gingerbread, sausages and sweet roasted almonds! If you're wondering if it's worth the hype then keep reading...

Christmas Markets

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas Markets in the world. The Christmas markets are normally open from late November to the end of December 10 am to 9 pm. There’s a lot for children to do with carousels and fairground rides, with some stalls doing a roaring trade in tasty crepes. Some markets are busier than others, even during the day but all of the markets will impress.

Festive food and drink

This traditional German market offers a range of festive food and drinks such as gluhwein, gingerbread and Nuremberg's famous bratwurst sausages. The prices of food and drinks are affordable and typically range between €3 to €8. Be on the lookout for the chocolate made to look like tools – they are so lifelike.

City Culinary Tour

Explore the Christmas City Nuremberg on a guided tour. Enjoy the atmosphere, get to know its history, learn about German Christmas market traditions, and taste great food. This tour is highly praised for its uniqueness and covers the city’s history. The tour goes on for around 2 hours so make sure you pack comfortable footwear and warm clothing.

Nuremberg Castle

The Imperial Castle of Nuremberg is a must-visit during the Christmas season and offers extended hours during Advent. If you want to experience the history then this is the perfect place to visit. Make sure to visit in late November or December for panoramic views of the medieval city covered in snow. They charge a reasonable price of €9 for entry.

How to get to Nuremberg at Christmas

You can travel from London to Nuremberg by train for £70. You’ll have to change trains twice and the quickest journey takes less than eight hours. By bus is a long journey and the cheap tickets start at £46 one-way. Leaving Victoria coach station, you’ll arrive at Nuremberg central bus station. The easiest and best way to get to Nuremberg’s Christmas markets is to fly.

There are no direct flights from the USA to Nuremberg Airport (NUE). You can book flights from major U.S. cities to Nuremberg with one or more layovers. Common layover cities include Frankfurt, Munich, Amsterdam, and Paris. Airlines such as Lufthansa, United Airlines, and Air France operate these routes

The U2 subway line connects the airport directly to Nuremberg's city centre, taking about 12 minutes to travel. Taxis and car rentals are also available.

Common airlines that fly to Nuremberg, Germany include Ryan Air, Wizz Air, Pegasus Airlines and Aegean Airlines.

Tips for visiting Nuremberg during Christmas

• Many churches and venues around Nuremberg host concerts and events during the holiday season so make sure to check them out!
• Traditional mulled wine, known as Glühwein, is a must-try!
• Nuremberg is close to other charming Bavarian Christmas markets. Consider a day trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bamberg, or even Munich for more Christmas market experiences

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, the stunning capital of Scotland, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of the holidays. As the weather gets colder, the city’s cosy pubs become a hot spot and the city comes alive with various events and performances.

The Edinburgh Christmas Tree

If you are flying to Edinburgh this Christmas, make sure you visit the Christmas tree! Typically located in East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh puts up a magnificent Christmas tree every year to celebrate Christmas! The tree is decorated with fairy lights, creating a picture-perfect scene for holiday photos. Visiting the symbol of the city’s festive spirit is a great way to start your trip.

Ice Skating and Funfair Rides

One of the fun activities you can do when in Edinburgh during Christmas is ice skating. For those looking for a bit of adventure, get your ice skates on with friends and family and visit the ice skating rink at St Andrew Square, surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the city. There are also fun fares to attend which is perfect for those travelling with children.

Scottish Pubs

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without experiencing its vibrant pub scene. Visiting a pub in Edinburgh during Christmas is a cosy and festive experience. The city's pubs come alive with holiday spirit, offering warmth, traditional Scottish hospitality, and seasonal decor. Some pubs have live music and sell holiday drinks such as mulled wine, eggnog and festive ales.

Christmas Markets

A highlight of visiting Edinburgh during the holiday season is the famous Christmas markets. Set in the heart of the city, the Edinburgh Christmas Market features festive stalls offering a variety of handcrafted gifts, local crafts, and delicious treats. The Christmas markets open from mid-November until early January and entry is free! It's also home to the LNER Big Wheel, Scotland’s largest Ferris wheel standing at 46m tall which allows you to get a great view of the city.

How to get to Edinburgh during Christmas

Getting to Edinburgh during Christmas is easy, with several options available. Trains to Edinburgh Waverley Station, located right in the city centre, are available from many major UK cities, including London, Manchester, and Glasgow. Driving to Edinburgh can be a great way to enjoy the scenic routes of Scotland however, the journey takes around 9 hours.

Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is well-connected to major cities in the UK, Europe, and even some North American destinations. Book cheap domestic flights within the UK through Alternative Airlines. Once at the airport, you can reach the city centre by tram, bus, or taxi, which takes around 30 minutes.

Airlines that fly to Edinburgh include British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, United Airlines and Air Lingus. Christmas is a popular time to visit Edinburgh, so book tickets early for better availability and prices.

Tips for visiting Edinburgh

• Wander through Edinburgh’s Old Town, including the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Holyrood Palace as these are some hidden gems.
• Try local dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, or sample fresh seafood and traditional Scottish breakfasts.
• Edinburgh is a popular destination year-round, but especially during Christmas and festival seasons, so booking accommodations early will give you more choices and often better rates.

Book flights this Christmas on Black Friday

Make your flights more affordable this year with Black Friday deals at Alternative Airlines. Here at Alternative Airlines, we'll be offering Black Friday discounts on any flight of your choice, allowing you to manage the cost of holiday travel during December’s peak season.

Want to find out how to get the cheapest flights this Black Friday? Check out our Black Friday flights blog to read more about this awesome day and discover the best destinations for getting the best airline ticket discounts.