8 Most Affordable Christmas Destinations for Families

Updated On: November 08, 2023 by   Omnia Essawy

Christmas is a time to relax, reflect on life, and believe in the magic beyond what we see around us. But most importantly, it is the time to reconnect and spend some true quality time with your family. 

As great as a Christmas at home always is, you can use this opportunity to take it up a notch and create unique life-lasting memories that will last you a lifetime, the type that is not easily created at home. The best way to do this is by going on a holiday family trip somewhere Christmas truly comes to life. Of course, this kind of trip doesn’t always come cheap, which is why we have compiled for you a list of the world’s 8 most affordable Christmas destinations for families. All you have to do is choose the one that speaks to you and your family the most. 

New York City, USA

If you or your kids’ inspiration for a perfect holiday comes from any of the popular Christmas movies, then being in New York at Christmas time is probably your ultimate fantasy. Most of the worldly popular Christmas and New Year’s movies are set in New York City. 

As the city that never sleeps, New York comes even more alive during the holiday season. Aside from the incomparable experience of watching the giant Christmas tree lighting at Rockefeller Center, you can take your little ones ice skating in any of the incredible skate parks around the city, watch the Rockettes perform at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular Show, and enjoy all the New York holiday seasonal staples that can’t be found anywhere else. 

Copenhagen, Denmark

The Danish capital, Copenhagen, is one of Europe’s best holiday destinations, especially during the holiday season. The city’s Tivoli Gardens is a Christmas dream, with a culinary delight at every corner, fairytale-like decorations, and incredible rides and thrills for your little ones, including, of course, Santa Clause himself.

Disney World, Florida (USA)

No one knows more about magic and bringing fantasies to life than Disney, and there is no better fitting time for some extra bit of magic like Christmas. Therefore, there is no better place in the world to spend the holidays with your family, especially kids, than Disney World, Florida. Enjoy incredible lighting displays in every park, as well as snow, and take your little ones to Cindrella’s Castle which has now been converted into an incredible Frozen-themed ice palace. Simply, make all your children’s dreams come true, as well as your own. One thing you’ll need to make sure of is to book well in advance, missing out on this step could cost you the entire trip. 

Venice, Italy

To be fair, a vacation in Venice will probably be just as majestic at any point of the year, however, Venice exudes a little bit of extra magic around Christmas time. The city of canals burns brighter than ever during the holidays with strings of lights surrounding the already picturesque views of the city waters and old buildings. The island of Murano is the best place to be in Venice during the holiday season.

The island’s gorgeous glassworks come alive when they are lit up for Christmas. If possible, it is highly recommended to extend your stay until New Year’s Eve, Venice’s New Year’s fireworks are not to be missed and your entire family is sure to have a countdown into the new year that they’ll probably be still talking about well into February. 

Santa Claus Village

The name itself explains why this particular destination made our list of top family holiday destinations. It is the place where kids can experience firsthand what Christmas is all about, they can meet Santa Claus himself and scout the snowy forests after Santa’s reindeer. You can also take them to Santa Park amusement park not far from the village where they can enjoy some Christmas-themed decorated rides and snacks. 

Jackson Hole, Wyoming (USA)

Looking for a fun white Christmas? Jackson Hole is the place to be! Jackson Hole is a popular family retreat known for its perfect Christmas atmosphere. You can take your kids to ski and ride the incredible slopes available through the Jackson Hole retreat. You can also practice other winter snow activities such as sledging, sleigh riding, snowmobiling, etc. Aside from all the winter sports and activities, you will, for sure, enjoy the incredible holiday decorations laid all around the town, especially, in the main square. You can also relax back at the retreat enjoying some roasted marshmallows and hot chocolate with your family in a true and authentic Christmas manner. 

Sydney 

Sydney is one of the main cities in Australia and the world. So if you are aiming to go big on your Christmas vacation, you couldn’t pick a better destination than the Australian cosmopolitan city, Sydney. The holiday in Sydney is a big event, the streets are lit up all season with twinkling lights, the air is filled with music, free family concerts are held in Hyde Park, street choirs go around singing Christmas carols all throughout the festivities, and Christmas trees are set at every corner, the highlight being the Martin Place Christmas tree. So if you are looking to truly get in the holiday spirit with your family, this is the place to do it. 

Bahamas

If you are seeking a truly unique atmosphere for your family Christmas away from the winter chilly and snowy weather, then you couldn’t go for a destination better than the Bahamas. Your kids can experience a one-of-a-kind beach experience in Melia Nassau Beach, explore the wonders of the underwater world while snorkelling, or take a boat ride in the Bahamas’ crystal clear waters. The activities may not be the most Christmas-y, however, they will, for sure, help create some unforgettable memories for you and your entire family.

Regardless of which destination you choose to visit during the holidays with your family, the most important thing to remember is to have as much fun as you possibly can together, because that’s what Christmas is truly all about.