Christmas means fun and happiness. It is celebrated around the world with absolute zest. No matter which religion you are, Christmas is a festival for all. The carols and jingles from prayer halls spread the spirit of Christmas in the atmosphere. Christmas symbolises love and kindness, and is all about merrymaking. People pray to God for the welfare of society. The idea of Christmas is coupled with some exquisite elements including gifts, lots of chocolates and cakes. Another precious element of this festival is the dearest Santa Claus, the old man who makes children smile with gifts. Though X-Mas Day is celebrated on 25th December, it will not be an exagerration to say that the festival lasts for more than a week. Further, Christmas celebrations have combined with New Year carnivals.

Christmas vacation is an ideal choice to plan an international holiday. This is the period when children enjoy long holidays from schools. Also, the climate becomes lovely with snowfalls in some places. All the major cities of the world remain in a festive mood. Following are some of the destinations that are perfect for Christmas tours.

Finland

The city of Helsinki, the capital of Finland turns into a land of fairy tale during Christmas. The famous monuments and landmarks in the city like the Presidential Palace, Lutheran Church, Opera House, Sibelius Park and Senate Square adorn a dazzling look. Uspenski Cathedral and Helsinki Cathedral are the two major places you cannot miss while visiting during the Christmas holidays in Helsinki. Uspenski Cathedral is the biggest Orthodox Church in Western Europe. On the other hand, Helsinki Cathedral is an Evangelic Lutheran church. Visiting the Christmas market with your family will be a delightful affair. The shops remain decorated with lightings, X-Mas trees and stars. Try the amazing food, especially chocolate cakes and pastries. Christmas tour packages include visiting Rovaniemi – the land of Santa Claus. The beautiful town is nestled at the northern Arctic Circle. Interestingly, the region witnesses eight different seasons. Santa Claus Village is a nostalgic place where you will get the chance to meet Santa. Whisper your wishes on the ears of the lovely old man with a long white beard and a red attire. You can buy some souvenirs at the shopping gallery to take the memories of Santa back to your home. Do not forget to taste the amazing ginger cookies at Mrs. Santa Claus Bakery. Tourists are taken to Safari Club where suitable warm clothing is provided on rent for their stay in Lapland. Visiting a reindeer farm and enjoying a reindeer ride becomes a memorable experience during Christmas tours. Witness the organic lifestyle of Sámi people, an arctic clan of Scandinavia. Try the refreshing hot berry juice which is a special beverage of the region. You can double the dose of adventure, by enjoying a sledge ride, which is pulled by husky dogs. Exploring the snow-clad Arctic forest and the frozen river will surely be an ecstatic affair of the Christmas vacation. If lucky, you may come across the Aurora Borealis, popularly known as northern lights. Enjoy a campfire with fellow tourists and celebrate the mood of Christmas together with our Finland tour packages.

Austria

Craft an astounding memory of Christmas in the beautiful city of Vienna, the capital of Austria. The city becomes a starry milieu during these days. The popular attractions including the Parliament, State Opera House, Hofburg Palace and the City Hall remain decorated with fancy lightings. The true spirit of Christmas can be felt at Christkindlmarkt in Vienna. The vibrant stalls sell handicrafts, toys, chocolates and other souvenirs. The place turns out to be a dreamland for kids. Here, one cannot miss tasting the gingerbreads and Glühwein. Christmas tour packages in Austria include the medieval city of Salzburg. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salzburg is home to spectacular baroque architecture. Explore the rich culture of the city during a walking tour. The beauty of Mirabell Palace and its surrounding garden will leave you mesmerised. The city is the birthplace of the great musician Mozart. Witnessing the wonderful Alpine meadows in Innsbruck will be the wow moments of your Christmas holidays. Book an Austria tour package to experience the beauty of this country during Christmas.

Germany

Munich, the cultural hub of Germany is a great destination to celebrate your Christmas holidays. Visit Marienplatz, one of the popular squares in the city to feel the pulse of Munich. The iconic Town Hall is also situated at the square. The historical monuments in the city narrate the tales of the glorious past. The fever of Christmas can be felt in the air of Munich. Enjoy great shopping at the Christmas markets. The aroma of bakeries will leave you enchanted. The beer gardens in Munich have their charm, especially during the festive season. After visiting the urban sphere, get ready to be allured by the magic of the German countryside. Christmas packages in Germany include visiting Oberammergau, an amorous countryside in Bavaria. This village is known for hosting the traditional ‘Passion Play’ every decade. The village is also popular for intricate woodcarvings and colourful murals. Book a Germany tour package to experience the best of a German Christmas.

Switzerland

The experience of celebrating Christmas in the Swiss city of Lucerne cannot be expressed in words. Enjoy Yuletide, a pre-Christmas fest in traditional Swiss zeal. One gets invigorated with X-mas zest at Franziskanerplatz. The market gets embellished with the sparkling Christmas elements. It becomes a merry land for kids. From gadgets to bakery products, the stalls offer everything that raises the festive mood high. Tourists may also explore the splendour of Swiss Alps during their Christmas vacation with a Switzerland tour package.

Celebrate Christmas in these exotic places to experience the euphoria of the magical festival. You can avail exciting Christmas packages from SOTC. SOTC wishes you a Merry Christmas!