The holidays are upon us, and we’re getting that warm and fuzzy feeling that comes along with falling snow, decorations and holiday spirit.

We’re taking a look at three cities that are always completely dreamy at this time of year:

New York City:

New York City is fun to visit at any time of year, really. But there is something magical about visiting the famed Rockefeller Centre and seeing the giant Christmas tree light up. It’s really a sight to see on a crisp NYC evening:

Grab some hot chocolate and visit the Rockefeller Centre in NYC

Photo credit: LabyrinthX

Lace up your skates and glide around one of the cities most iconic landmarks all while enjoying the crisp air. Afterwards, grab a cup of hot chocolate and window shop along the streets. New York’s bigger department stores like Macy’s, Bergdorf’s, and Bloomgdales all have inspiring holiday window displays that will surely have you thinking about the perfect presents for loved ones. Let’s also take a moment to remember that one of the best holiday movies (Home Alone 2), was filmed in NYC during Christmas!

Avoid the hotel pricing this holiday, and check out some affordable NYC holiday apartments. Of course, if you’re sticking around a little bit longer in NYC, make sure that you find your perfect New Year’s Eve accommodation to help ring in the new year!

Paris:

There is hardly a city as romantic during the holidays as Paris. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées and take in the beautifully decorated streets adorned with thousands of twinkling lights.

This is a great way to add to your wish-list before Christmas!

The Champs-Élysées lights up in a display of lights!

photo: slasher-fun

Of course, you’ll want to check out the Eiffel Tower (you can also go for a skate there too!) all decked out in it’s finest holiday gear. Grab a hot Café au lait after your busy day of activities.

Enjoy the Eiffel Tower under a fresh blanket of snow

photo: Charley1965
After all of the walking and skating, you’ll want to rest up in your own vacation rental in Paris. Cozy up this holiday and find out why so many people fall in love with Paris!

Berlin:

Germany is known for it’s Christmas Markets during December. All over Germany, Christmas Markets begin popping up where vendors sell crafts, home made goods, and ideal stocking stuffers from open air stalls. Berlin has no shortage of Christmas Markets. Make sure you check them out, there is plenty to see and do. Enjoy a wide variety of drinks, live music and amazing displays! You can find nativity scenes, nutcrackers, and warm eggnog.

Browse through the historic German Christmas Markets!

 

Did you know that advent calendars originated in Germany? The first printed advent calendar came from Hamburg. Overtime, little chocolates were often added as a sweet bonus to the countdown.

Wandering around Berlin during December will certainly prepare you for the holidays. Make sure that you find your very own Berlin apartment to relax and warm up in after sight seeing. You’ll be feeling like a local in no time.

If you need more ideas on what to do while in Berlin, check out our earlier entry here!

What is your favourite city to celebrate the holidays in?