Winter wonderland: These are the most enchanting Christmas destinations around the world

This small city in Belgium feels like a one-way ticket to the Hansel and Gretel story, with what looks like real-life gingerbread houses. Bruges boasts charming and unique architecture with it small, colourful houses that transport you to what feels like a giant Christmas market.

For food lovers, Bruges is particularly delightful during the festive season. Think steaming mugs of hot chocolate, an array of sweets and panettone at every turn. Before you leave, don’t miss the Christmas market in Bruges' main square, where picturesque wooden chalets surround a glittering ice rink.

Paris, known as the city of love, becomes even more enchanting during Christmas. Luxury boutiques adorn their façades with festive decorations, the aroma of spiced wine fills the air and charming Christmas markets await at every corner.

This year, Christmas in Paris carries special significance with the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral after the devastating fire of 2019. This momentous occasion offers both a celebration for the French, and the opportunity for visitors to rediscover this iconic landmark in all its festive glory.

You’ve probably heard of Harbin or seen its breathtaking photos online. This city in northern China is not only one of the coldest places in the country, but also in the world.

Harbin is known as one of Asia’s top Christmas destinations thanks to its International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. This extraordinary event spans an impressive 600,000 square metres, with the tallest sculptures reaching a staggering 150 feet. It’s a must-see, especially for families with children, as it offers a magical winter experience like no other.

It’s that time of year to watch Love Actually for the hundredth time—the ultimate Christmas film that reminds us just how magical London is during the festive season.

London has a classic, enduring charm as a winter destination, with the impressive Christmas lights on Oxford Street and a range of concerts and performances across the city. It's creates the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to curl up in a café with a good book and a big warm scarf to enjoy the holiday atmosphere.

Europe is often seen as the best place to celebrate Christmas, but not far from us lies Sapporo, Japan, where the festive magic really comes alive in a serene setting.

The city's winter charm is brought to life through its iconic snow-dusted parks, twinkling illuminations and holiday events. Sapporo has it all: winter sports, local traditions and a Christmas spirit that's distinctively Japanese. 

Some cities leave a lasting impression, and New York is undoubtedly one of them. During winter, the city is full of iconic scenes like skaters gliding across the ice rink at Rockefeller Center—a staple scene in many Christmas-themed romantic comedies.

York is the ideal place to embrace the crisp December chill while exploring streets adorned with Christmas decorations, from majestic trees to decorated shopfronts. There's truly no place like New York to experience the Christmas spirit. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of snow gently blanketing Central Park, adding a touch of magic to the season.

Megève is home to cherished Christmas memories for many French people, particularly those who love skiing. Recently featured in the latest season of Emily in Paris, this charming town is a charming ski resort nestled in the mountains. 

Expect long days on the slopes, streets adorned with Christmas lights and the comforting aroma of fondue wafting through the air for the perfect festive après-ski experience. 

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