Tis’ the season for traveling around the world to cities that are decorated with lights, various colors, garlands, fresh wintergreen smells, and vibrant holiday spirit. Each city around the world celebrates the holidays with their own twist and brings joy to families and friends, alike. Here are our top five picks for celebrating this winter season and exploring a city you have never ventured to before:
 

Vienna, Austria

With a long history of Christmas traditions, Vienna offers a stunning variety of holiday activities. Christkindlmarkts, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, is decked out in twinkling decorations during this time of year and whether you are visiting to see the Baroque architecture or the legendary Vienna Boys’ Choir concerts, there is something for everyone.
 

Seoul, South Korea

A visit to Seoul this time of year will light up your Christmas. South Korea, the only major country in East Asia to recognize Christmas as a public holiday, has their own way of celebrating this season. Seoul has a Christmas festival that includes tree lighting, daily concerts and decorations that follow the theme of joy, hope, glory, and blessings. During this season, the Lotte World theme park, Everland theme park, Herb Island Lighting Festival, Cheongdo Provence Starlight Fairytale Town Lighting Festival, and the Myeongdong shopping district have fantastic light displays and are just some of the many Christmas lights attractions in the city.
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Lima, Peru

The Peruvian twist on Christmas traditions are very well highlighted throughout Lima city during this special time of year. Christmas Eve in celebrated with decorative tree, large gatherings, and elaborate parades. A Christmas light show with fireworks takes place in historic San Martin Plaza, and on Christmas Eve, fireworks are shot over the Plaza Mayor.
 

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town may be closer to the South Pole rather than the North Pole, but this coastal city knows how to celebrate the holiday season! The city hosts multiple holidays markets during this time of year and the best part is you get to skip out on wearing coats and scarfs. Before checking the local Christmas markets, you can even hit the waves at the beach or head out on a safari with the warm temperatures around this time of year. You can also enjoy outdoor movie nights and caroling at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens on Christmas Day or stroll down Adderley Street for the Festival of Lights.
 

New York City, USA

From ice skating at Rockefeller Center to carriage rides through Central Park, New York City has a great array of activities for all Christmas and winter holiday lovers. Christmas in the Big Apple is filled with lights, cheesy muzak, enormous decorations, and decorated window displays. This winter wonderland comes filled with stunning performances, the famous Macy’s parade, and various winter markets.

Read our previous article about The Best Christmas Markets Around the World and learn more about how cities around the world celebrate their winter season.

In case of a travel emergency during your winter holiday, make sure to download the Global Travel Plus Mobile App. With just a tap of a button, you can be connected to our 24/7 Operations Team. The app also includes many features that may be helpful during your travels such as Pre-Trip Information, U.S. Pharmacy Locator, and Global Embassy Locator.