Need some holiday spirit in your life? From twinkling lights to ornamented trees, December-time decorations are always guaranteed to uplift one’s mood. Journalist Katy Spratte Joyce shares five incredible cities across the globe to dream about this holiday season.
Tallinn, Estonia:
This Baltic gem remains a highly underrated destination, especially as the temperature drops. Visit for one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe in the UNESCO-designated Old Town. Then, imbibe with a sip of Vana Tallinn before heading to the Art Nouveau-inspired The Park Mansion Tallinn for an evening of rest.
Bruges, Belgium:
Gingerbread-like architecture abounds in this fairytale of a city, long beloved for its cobblestone streets and winding canals. Wintertime means less tourists to clog up the Christmas markets and a pop-up ice rink in the shadow of the famed Belfry. Cozy up at Hotel Heritage Bruges, a dreamy five-star Relais Chateaux in the heart of Bruges.
Québec City, Canada:
For a taste of Europe in North America, look no further than the French-speaking heart of Canada, whose Old Town shines in the winter like a real Christmas Village. Lace up your skates at Place D’Youville, right next to the city’s famous fortified walls. There’s no better place to stay than the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, widely recognized as the world’s most photographed hotel.
Chicago, Illinois:
Grab some glühwein and handmade gifts at the Christkindl Market in the Windy City, the largest in the US. Then, for the ultimate in Christmas cheer, enjoy a Langham “Oh Christmas Tree” suite offer, complete with bespoke charcuterie, champagne cocktails, and, you guessed it, a fully decked out tree.
Denver, Colorado:
Denver delights in the winter season, with tons of twinkling lights from the Denver Zoo to the Denver Botanic to the Mile High Tree. With its awe-inspiring Rocky Mountain backdrop, the city offers an ideal Christmas getaway. Lay your head at the hip new Clayton Members Club and hotel in chic Cherry Creek.
