9 Christmas Vacation Ideas You Can't Refuse

 Are you looking for an amazing Christmas getaway? There's a whole world to wander. Whether you're looking for a place that celebrates Christmas in a different way - or perhaps a locale that doesn't celebrate it at all - you're bound to find something to fit the bill.

How will you celebrate this year? We'll take a look at nine different Christmas vacation ideas that cover the span from traditional to off the beaten path.

1. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Just 170 miles northwest of Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende is a truly non-traditional Christmas destination.

This 500-year-old colonial city is full of vibrantly colored baroque architecture and artisan shops that sell a wide array of jewelry, crafts, and other handmade accessories.

Nestled among central Mexico's Sierra Madre Mountains, San Miguel de Allende has become a popular destination for tourists seeking extraordinary music, art, and a food scene that's off the beaten path.

You can explore the city's Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel church, the Another Face of Mexico mask museum, or even take classes at the Instituto Allende art school.

2. New York City, NY, United States

For a far more traditional type Christmas, head to New York City to ice skate in Central Park, check out the famous Christmas tree lighting at Rockefeller Center and catch the Rockettes at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular Show.

You'll be taken by the stunningly designed department store windows and holiday displays all across this huge city.

If you have the time to stay a little longer in the city, you may even get a chance to see the ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve.

3. Reykjavik, Iceland

While the Christmas season is one of very little daylight and very cold weather, this dynamic capital of Iceland is full of geothermal spas to keep you cozy during the holiday.

If you're looking for a dramatic nature-inspired holiday, Iceland is a great choice.

The city itself has plenty to offer in terms of entertainment. There are a surprising number of shops and museums by day, and exciting nightlife.

Head out of the city to take in the Northern Lights, expansive glaciers, and active volcanoes. It's truly a place like no other.

4. Old Quebec, Canada

Old Quebec is filled with lights, decorations, and snow to create an enchanting Christmas setting.

This charming setting offers an authentic European Christmas market that's fully decorated and has more than 80 kiosks filled with artisan items that celebrate the spirit of the season.

Much like in New York, if you plan to stay longer, you can spend the last four days of December on the heated terraces of the famous Grande Allée. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel or carousel and marvel at the spectacular fireworks that ring in the new year on December 31st.

5. Orlando, FL, United States

Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is not ideal for everyone, but it can be a great destination for families.

The park is decorated with millions of lights and joyful music plays throughout. There are parades and fireworks shows that celebrate Christmas.

Cinderella’s Castle even becomes a magical Frozen ice palace!

Finally, head over to Epcot to learn how different cultures and countries celebrate the holidays.

6. Edinburgh, Scotland

When you think of Scotland, you may have romantic notions of bagpipes, crests, tartans, and kilts.

But Scotland also boasts an impressive landscape of dormant volcanoes and moorlands in a shade of green you never thought possible.

Sometimes referred to as the Athens of the North, Edinburgh is the second most-visited city in the United Kingdom. (London is first.)

Though the city certainly embraces the festivities of the season, it's also a great place for history buffs. The Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse Palace are absolute must-sees along the Royal Mile.

Get an eyeful of art at the free National Galleries of Scotland. To catch some last-minute Christmas shopping, head to New Town for an amazing retail experience.

7. Branson, MO, United States

Another United States destination, Branson offers something completely different from New York and Florida.

Situated in the Ozark Mountains, Branson embraces the holiday spirit with live singing and dancing performances, parades, light shows, and tours.

There's even a Christmas Tree Trail populated with giant trees that have been fully decorated.

If you do head to Branson for Christmas, it's essential you head to a park known as  Silver Dollar City. From early November through January 1st, it's a sight to behold.

During the Christmas season, every square inch of Silver Dollar City is lit with millions of lights. The five-story special effects Christmas tree at the center of the park is not to be missed.

8. Sydney, Australia

If you love sparkle and glitz, you'll want to take in the sparkle and glamour of the Swarovski tree in Martin Place.

Covered with 82,000 Swarovski crystals and 65,150 lights, it's a 6.5-ton spectacle of opulence that spans three floors of the mall.

There is another tree lighting in Martin Place that happens on November 25th. A more traditional tree-lighting, Santa arrives in a cycle-drawn sleigh to turn on the lights himself.

The lighting is followed by a huge line-up of family entertainment and fireworks fill summer night’s sky.

And of course, with Christmas falling in the summer in Australia, there's the option of taking a Christmas cruise! This could be a fun way to celebrate and have a pre-determined trip at the same time.

9. Copenhagen, Denmark

Head to Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens for the quintessential in decorations, handmade gifts, holiday food, and drink. You'll even find real reindeer and beautifully decorated wooden houses in the Danish tradition.

Plus, there are lots of exciting rides for kids. You can find Santa there, too.

If you have a little more time on your hands, there are other Christmas markets to explore in the city - including the Kronborg Castle, and a fairytale-themed market that's inspired by Hans Christian Anderson.

Which Christmas Vacation Ideas Spark Your Interest?

Our nine Christmas vacation ideas are just the beginning. The spirit of the holidays - no matter what you celebrate - can be found in many different countries and cultures.

The most important thing is to just enjoy the season.

For more inspirational articles about traveling the world, keep checking back with us!