Celebrate the magic of the holidays in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations, where luxurious hotels offer unique experiences that promise to create lifelong memories. Whether you envision yourself strolling through Prague’s enchanting Christmas markets, relaxing in the sun-kissed luxury of Punta Mita, or embracing the cozy charm of Ireland, this curated collection of dream destinations around the globe offers something for every traveler looking to make the holidays truly spectacular.

Badrutt’s Palace Hotel – St. Moritz, Switzerland

Perched 6,000 feet above sea level in the breathtaking Swiss Alps, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel has been enchanting guests with its timeless charm and impeccable service since 1896. A true winter wonderland, the hotel offers direct access to magical alpine adventures, from skating on its own ice rink to exhilarating activities like Skijöring across frozen Lake St. Moritz and snowkiting over glistening mountain passes. This season, Badrutt’s unveils its much-anticipated Serlas Wing, the first expansion in over a century, featuring 25 exquisitely designed rooms and suites by celebrated architect Antonio Citterio. The new wing also includes a discreet underground tunnel leading to the town square and Chesa Veglia, St. Moritz’s oldest farmhouse turned culinary treasure. Every detail at Badrutt’s Palace whispers of elegance, adventure, and unforgettable memories, making it a dream destination this holiday season.

Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa – Champillon, France

Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa, located just 45 minutes by train from Paris, offers an idyllic holiday escape in the enchanting French countryside. Perched atop a hill between Reims and Epernay, this five-star hotel boasts breathtaking views of the UNESCO-protected vineyards, often blanketed in frost during winter for a magical holiday ambiance. Recognized with Forbes Travel Guide Five Stars, Travel & Leisure’s #1 Hotel/Resort in France for 2024, and a Three MICHELIN Key designation, the hotel blends luxury and charm. You can enjoy signature candle massages or custom facials at the 16,000-square-foot spa, cozy afternoon tea by the fire in the festively decorated living room, and Michelin-starred dining at Le Royal. A special Christmas package includes a bottle of champagne upon arrival, daily breakfast at Le Bellevue, a Christmas Eve Dinner, and Christmas Day Tea Time, making it a dream destination for a festive and indulgent winter getaway.

Hotel Principe di Savoia – Milan, Italy

Hotel Principe di Savoia in Milan brings holiday magic to life with its enchanting Santa Claus Suite, a whimsical Christmas wonderland where children can write letters to Santa and enjoy festive sweets through December 31. The festive spirit continues at Acanto Restaurant, transformed into a winter wonderland with candlelight and live music, where chefs add a seasonal twist to traditional Italian dishes. You can also indulge in Acanto’s festive afternoon tea, featuring decadent pastries, freshly baked cakes, and rich chocolate delights, perfectly paired with tea or a flute of Champagne for a truly memorable Milanese holiday experience.

One Aldwych – London, U.K.

One Aldwych, a 5-star boutique hotel in the heart of London’s Covent Garden was recently named one of the Top Hotels in London (in the Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards). During the charming winter season, the delightful property transforms into a magical holiday retreat with an enchanting forest theme. At the center of it all stands a stunning Christmas tree, its lichen-covered branches reaching the ceiling and whimsical woven willow creatures peeking from the foliage. Embrace the holiday spirit with a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-themed festive afternoon tea, or sip seasonal cocktails under twinkling lights in The Lobby Bar, creating an atmosphere of wonder and celebration.

Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam – Amsterdam, Netherlands

The historic Tivoli Doelen Amsterdam is centrally located in Amsterdam, making it an idyllic respite for visitors seeking art and culture in one of Europe’s most exciting winter wonderlands. Celebrating its 8th anniversary, the magical Christmas Village is located in Museumplein (a quick walk from the hotel) and features an amazing array of culinary delights and shopping from December 12-16. To elevate your holiday experience in an enchanting and memorable way, top off the night with a canal cruise that showcases the city’s twinkling Christmas light displays.

Cashel Palace – Tipperary, Ireland

Cashel Palace in Tipperary, Ireland, offers a magical holiday escape in a restored Palladian manor dating back to 1732. This five-star Relais & Châteaux property delights with a three-day Christmas package featuring carol-singing, mulled wine, gourmet dining at the award-winning Bishop’s Buttery, visits from Santa, and live Irish music. New Year’s Eve celebrations include luxurious dinners, live entertainment, and a champagne toast at midnight. Guests can enjoy festive spa retreats, private dining options, and bespoke gift baskets from the Christmas Shop. Recognized in Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List and Travel + Leisure’s It List, Cashel Palace epitomizes Irish hospitality and holiday charm.

91 Athens Riviera, The Resort – Greece

Perched along the stunning Athens Riviera, 91 Athens Riviera, The Resort offers a warm and welcoming holiday escape blending Mediterranean charm with festive cheer. Adults can indulge in sophisticated experiences like a Whiskey & Cigar Night, a Ladies Yoga & Brunch, or the glamorous Christmas Eve Gala and Christmas Day Brunch at Barbarossa, featuring live Greek music. Younger guests will be enchanted by activities such as an ‘Xmas Bazaar’ for writing letters to Santa, a ‘Santa’s Little Bakers’ event, and a nostalgic Christmas Movie Night for the whole family to enjoy. With its festive programming, balmy weather, and breathtaking coastal views, 91 Athens Riviera, The Resort promises a magical holiday experience for all.

Violino d’Oro – Venice, Italy

Nestled in the heart of Venice, the five-star boutique Violino d’Oro invites you to celebrate the holidays with authentic Venetian traditions and understated luxury. Located in a historic 17th-century building, the intimate 32-room hotel exudes the charm of a private Venetian palazzo. This season, Violino d’Oro presents its Cultural Advent Calendar, featuring curated experiences like private glass ornament crafting with a Murano maestro, festive holiday feasts at Il Piccolo Restaurant, exclusive opera tours at La Fenice Theater, and immersive visits to Murano’s Natale di Vetro. From savoring traditional Venetian dishes to hands-on glassblowing classes, Violino d’Oro offers an enchanting holiday escape steeped in artistry and heritage.

The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort – Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort offers a luxurious warm-weather escape, blending natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure on a serene peninsula. This winter, celebrate the holidays with the resort’s unique Brushed Agave Fiber Christmas tree, adorned with handcrafted elements like Wixarika yarn paintings and artisanal ceramics that honor local culture. Relax in private cabanas, enjoy signature Champagne Sabrage, tee off on Jack Nicklaus Golf Courses, or rejuvenate at The St. Regis Spa. With seamless access via 20+ North American flights, this newly transformed resort is the perfect festive getaway, especially if you’re looking to trade in your ski goggles for your swimsuit.

The Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa – Johannesburg, South Africa

The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa, an iconic symbol of Johannesburg hospitality and luxury, unveiled an exclusive holiday installment with Moët & Chandon inspired by their recent gold label redesign and The Saxon’s 2024 renovations. This untraditional Moët & Chandon-themed Christmas tree titled “A Splash of Gold,” features a unique copper structure adorned with gold, white, and touches of black that extend into the lobby chandelier. Continuing the festivities, the exclusive 5-star hotel’s restaurant, Qunu, invites guests to indulge in a specially crafted four-course menu, prepared by their renowned chefs for New Year’s. Expert sommeliers are on hand to perfectly pair each dish with an exceptional wine selection, creating a dining experience to savor with family and friends.

El Palace Barcelona – Barcelona, Spain

El Palace Barcelona, a 5-star icon and proud member of the Leading Hotels of the World, continues its century-long tradition of extravagant holiday celebrations this winter, earning recognition as a nominee in the “Hotels” category of the Condé Nast Traveler 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. The hotel delights guests with a festive lineup, including its renowned open-air Christmas cinema on the Rooftop Garden, a gingerbread-making master class, and a rooftop Christmas market showcasing local artisans and holiday cheer. Families can enjoy a magical Christmas afternoon tea with Santa Claus in the Great Hall, while music enthusiasts are invited to the third annual Charity Christmas Concert by L’Escolania de Montserrat, one of Europe’s oldest boys’ choirs. Adding to the wonder, the Rooftop Garden transforms into a life-sized gingerbread house inspired by Hansel and Gretel, offering sweeping views of Barcelona and an unforgettable holiday experience.

NH Collection Prague Carlo IV – Czechia, Prague

NH Collection Prague Carlo IV offers a storybook holiday escape just a 15-minute stroll from the renowned Christmas Market in Old Town Square, running until January 6. Housed in a stunning Neo-Renaissance building designed by famed Viennese architect Achille Wölf in the 1890s, the hotel retains its historic charm with preserved features like the original treasury room, now transformed into The Vault Bar. After exploring the market’s mulled wine, gingerbread, and handmade gifts, unwind with a festive cocktail in this cozy, atmospheric retreat.

The Shelbourne – Dublin, Ireland

The Shelbourne has been at the heart of Dublin’s holiday celebrations for 200 years, marking its bicentennial with extraordinary festive décor, including 200 wreaths, 32 dazzling Christmas trees, and 426 feet of garland. Overlooking St. Stephen’s Green and near Grafton Street’s holiday shopping, the hotel offers a perfect seasonal retreat. Enjoy a Festive Afternoon Tea in the Lord Mayor’s Lounge, featuring seasonal bites and a magical children’s menu, or savor a festive four-course Christmas Eve meal in The Saddle Room. No.27 Bar & Lounge adds to the cheer with holiday cocktails like the White Elephant and Jingle Berry Gin, ensuring a truly enchanting holiday experience. If you want to create a special tradition for your family, this beautiful hotel is a must-visit dream destination this season.

Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel – Amalfi, Italy

Perched on the stunning Amalfi Coast, Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel offers an unforgettable festive retreat, earning accolades such as a spot on the 2024 Travel + Leisure “It” List, Time 100 World’s Greatest Places, and #13 in Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards for Hotels in Italy. As the region’s only five-star hotel open through the holidays, it delights guests with exclusive celebrations, including a seafood dinner on Christmas Eve, a Christmas Day lunch, and a dazzling New Year’s Eve soirée with aperitivos, a gourmet feast on Dei Cappuccini Terrace, and midnight fireworks. Immerse yourself in the season’s charm with a Christmas market in the hotel’s historic cloisters, festive afternoon tea featuring regional delicacies, and an amaro masterclass led by Franciscan friar Marcus. For those seeking relaxation, the Anantara Spa offers indulgent treatments such as candlelit couples’ massages and solo rituals, ensuring a luxurious and serene holiday escape.

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[Header image credit: Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa. Hotel images c/o featured properties.]