Have you started counting down to Christmas? It’s officially 18 days until Christmas, tbh where does the year 2017 went?! Okay back to our main topic, do you have any plans during this festive season? If you’re planning a last minute getaway, continue reading to find out the best cities around the world that worth traveling to for Christmas.

When it comes to Christmas celebrations, cities across the world all have their own unique way of getting in the spirit. Of course, they will always have the sparkly fairytale lights, decorated trees. However different places will have their own unique traditions. From making Christmas pudding with Guinness or Irish Whiskey to fruitcake tosses. If you’re up for getting a stamp in your passport, the following () beautiful cities totally nail it when it comes to Christmas magic.

1. Quebec City

Quebec City is definitely one of my favorite cities especially during the festive season. With the lit-up narrow cobblestoned streets, 16th and 17th century stone houses, and lots of snow, Quebec which already looks like a romantic European-like place instantly turns into a picturesque Christmas village. Not to mention, Quebec which bustles with winter activity, offers holiday programs for all tastes regardless you’re an outdoor enthusiasts, or nature lover.

2. Nuremberg, Germany

If Christmas shopping is your favourite Christmas activity, then Nuremberg is the place for you! Every year, there are more than 2 million tourists that visit Germany for this well-known and breathtaking Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas market). Nuremberg’s Christmas Market Council is also very serious about making sure only traditional handmade toys and holiday goods are sold. No mass-produced plastic garlands here. The market’s 200 select vendors will also put up fantastic displays as they compete for the Most Beautiful Stall Design award. The top three walk away with a gold, silver or bronze “Plum People” awards. Adult can enjoy Nuremberg spicy gingerbread and mugs of mulled wine. For kids, there’s the Toy Museum, a giant carved wooden Ferris wheel, and the German Railway Museum which is a hit with everyone.

3. Prague, Czech Republic 

4. London, England 

I bet you have see tons of pictures of London during the Christmas on social media. I got to admit, London seriously turns up the bling this time of the year! I love how sparkling displays of Christmas lights are set up all over town. There are a few places you MUST see, including Oxford Street, Carnaby Christmas Lights, and Covent Garden Christmas. If you enjoy ice-skating, London also has several places you could visit. For instance, Natural History Museum Ice Rink, Somerset House, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Check out the list – here.

5. Reykjavík, Iceland

Iceland, the otherworldly landscape, daylight is a four-hour affair and the liquid-green aurora borealis illuminated the nightime sky. Seriously what else is better than spending your Christmas under a sky with breathtaking aurora. In addition, you also get to see the Icelandic version of Santa Claus, 12 Yule Lads peeking out from every corner shop and window.

6. Lapland, Finland

What could put you more in the Christmas spirit than exploring Santa Claus Village? Venture to the arctic circle in Lapland, where you’ll meet the man in red himself. Then warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and venture out for a day of dog sledding or tobogganing in the fresh snow. You can even visit a reindeer farm to really put you in the spirit. You can also lie on your bed and enjoy a sky full of aurora by staying at the igloos at Hotel Kakslauttanen. Some of their igloos are made of thermal glass.

7. Edinburgh, Scotland 

Scotland in winter is simply magical. In Edinburgh, Christmas isn’t just a one-day celebration. This gorgeous Scottish city keeps the holiday festivities in full swing for six weeks. The streets are lined with Christmas markets, pop-up ice rinks, and sparkly lights! The city goes crazy with festive rides and attractions, like candy cane bungees, ice wall climbing, and the famous Christmas tree maze. If you prefer to sit back and relax, a variety of holiday shows are on deck, like the highly acclaimed La Clique Noel.

8. Vienna, Austria 

An old-fashioned warmth envelops Vienna at Christmas, softening the hard edges of imperial architecture with twinkling decorations and three outdoor Christkindlmarkts which begin to open in mid-November, offering everything from freshly poured candles to handmade shoes. You could enjoy fuelling your shopping with finger food and a glass of spiced mulled wine, or glühwein. Not to mention, check out The Vienna Boys’ Choir, it is literally one of the most recognisable choirs in the world, and they are ready to serenade you with all the holiday classic.

9. Tallin, Estonia 

For many years residents and guests of Tallinn are enchanted by the annual Tallinn Christmas Market. It is a true fairy-tale land – there is  a tall Christmas tree on the historic town square surrounded by little  houses shining with lights that sell Christmas delicacies and folk craft  products. Children will be happy to see merry-go-rounds and Santa Claus, the main stage will feature hundreds of singers and dancers performing, and amazing aromas of gingerbread and mulled wine will spread all over the square. P.S there’s some debate over whether or not Tallin created the world’s first Christmas tree.

10. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, often known as the “Capital of Christmas”. With it’s famous Christmas market which existed since the late 1500s.  It attracts nearly 2 million visitors every year. Indulge yourself in fresh sweets and doughnuts while shopping for Christmas gifts and decors. The highlight of Strasbourg is everyone gather around to admire the giant Christmas tree and and skate on the ice rink with loved ones.