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6 Romantic Christmas Destinations

Feeling the love at Christmas time? Christmas is the time of year when many cities are at their romantic best. Snow-covered winter wonderlands, streets aglow with Christmas lights, warm fires and mulled wine can’t help but inspire romance. This year, take your loved one on a holiday to one of these romantic Christmas destinations.

1. Grindelwald, SWITZERLAND

SFor a romantic getaway to a fairytale wonderland, you can’t beat Grindelwald at Christmas. This picturesque resort destination is set at the foot of two spectacular peaks of the Swiss Alps. During the holiday season, the alpine village is filled with charm and festivity.

Stay at one of the many luxurious spa retreats with views of the pristine snow-clad Alps and enjoy some serious pampering. More adventurous couples can experience the thrill of skiing the Swiss Alps, with runs perfect for both beginners and more experienced skiers. After a day on the slopes, indulge in traditional Swiss fondue and sip mulled wine while curled up beside the fire. Still needing more romance? Spend some time relaxing together in the hot-tub. For that extra-special night out, dine at Piz Gloria, a revolving restaurant on top of the Schilthorn with breathtaking panoramic views over more than 200 peaks.

2. Nuremberg, GERMANY

Famous for its magical Christkindlesmarkt (Christmas market), Nuremberg is the perfect destination for couples who want to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of one of Bavaria’s prettiest villages. You’ll love wandering through the market, filled with aromas of Gluhwein (mulled wine), sweet roasted almonds and Lebkuchen (gingerbread biscuits). Eat locally made Bratwurst, shop for exquisite hand carved Christmas ornaments and, if you’re lucky, you might meet the Christkind, the angel that brings gifts to children on Christmas eve.

Evoke the nostalgic joy of Christmas with a visit to the Nuremberg Toy Museum and a ride on the magnificent two-tired carousel. Take a romantic stage-coach tour around the village, explore the many museums, or complete the fairytale holiday with a stroll up to the medieval Nuremberg Imperial Castle.

3. Reykjavik, ICELAND

There is something immensely romantic about celebrating Christmas beneath the world’s most enchanting light show, the Auroa Borealis (Northern Lights). Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is particularly cold and dark in winter, yet its Christmas celebrations centre around warmth and light. Surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful scenery and stunning architecture, the snowy city comes to life at Christmas with music, markets and delightful illuminations.

Bathe in one of the many naturally warm geothermal pools, beaches or rivers with the Northern Lights above and snowflakes falling around you. Dine at the finest restaurants, such as Perlan, a revolving restaurant with 360-degree views of the city, and experience a romantic night of music with the Icelandic Opera at the spectacular Harpa Concert Hall.

4. Jukkasjarvi, SWEDEN

For couples whose idea of a romantic holiday involves a more remote destination, the tiny village of Jukkasjarvi offers a unique holiday experience. Set in the winter-white landscapes of frosted forests and iced lakes, Jukkasjarvi is known for its famous Ice Hotel which is rebuilt each year out of snow and ice. The hotel accommodates the most adventurous guests who sleep in expedition-style sleeping bags made for extreme conditions.

For a warmer experience, spend time snuggled by the fire in a secluded log cabin, hugging a glass of aromatic Glogg (mulled wine). In the evenings, bathe in a wood-fired sauna while keeping an eye out for the spectacular Northern Lights overhead. Experience the magic of driving a reindeer sled through the winter forests, or set off on an adventure on a dogsled.

5. New York City, USA

Christmas in New York is simply magical, and it’s no wonder it’s the setting for countless romantic films. Each Christmas, the city is transformed into a glorious winter wonderland, its streets festively adorned with colourful decorations and sparkling lights.

Rug up and stroll through Central Park, one of the most romantic places in New York, or feel like royalty as you set off on an enchanted carriage ride. Skate glove-in-glove around the ice-rink in Central Park with beautiful views of the city, and visit the spectacular Rockefeller Center Christmas tree with more than 30,000 Christmas lights. Wander down Fifth Avenue taking time to admire the festive window displays. Spend a romantic night out at The Nutcracker ballet before making your way to the top of the Empire State Building to take in the breathtaking views and re-enact scenes from Sleepless in Seattle.

6. Paris, FRANCE

What could be more romantic than a trip to Paris? A trip to Paris at Christmas time, of course. During the festive season, the City of Light is truly ablaze, its streets and buildings illuminated with thousands of lights. Sounds of Christmas choirs ring out from churches, and the aroma of roasted chestnuts lingers in the air.

Stroll hand-in-hand down the beautiful Champs-Elysees, trees shimmering with Christmas lights, and enjoy a tender moment together on the Ferris wheel, high above the enchanted city. Experience ice-skating under the stars and visit the Eiffel tower, even more spectacular when it’s snowing. Be awed by whimsical shop window displays and shop the Christmas markets for precious gifts. Around almost every corner you will find a Christmas carousel inviting you to revel in the idyllic magic of Christmas.

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