Wish-list moments this winter: Our top festive breaks to enjoy in 2025
Whether you’re counting down the days to December, or have left planning to the last minute, there are still plenty of festive breaks and Late Escapes waiting to be enjoyed.
The Christmas period is almost upon us and we’re looking forward to enchanting experiences towards the end of this year. From tours taking in Europe’s most historic Christmas markets to warm-weather getaways across the Mediterranean, there’s something to suit every taste across the festive season. With that in mind, we’ve ranked our top three Christmas and New Year breaks for whatever experience you might be after so that you can get the most out of each festive moment.
The best escapes closer to home
Fancy a memorable Christmas break without the long-distance travel? Set across the delightful English countryside, these three breaks are the ideal choice for a more relaxed experience, complete with all the home comforts you’d expect.
Winchester, England
Home to ancient landmarks, sprawling countryside stretches and a handful of south-coast cities, Hampshire is the perfect spot for a cheer-inspiring break in England’s beautiful south. Meander around the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral, dressed in all its festive finery, embrace Christmas traditions in charming Winchester, and marvel at the UK’s most famous flagships on Portsmouth Harbour. After each memorable excursion, settle in for some indulgent seasonal treats back at an exquisite, four-star spa hotel.
Our recommended tour – Christmas in England’s Historic South
Yorkshire, England
Dominating much of England’s Northeast, Yorkshire’s snow-dusted dales are the ideal setting for a Christmas break closer to home. From the charming Victorian spa town of Harrogate to the country’s former Viking capital, York, the region’s charming local communities are amongst the most welcoming in the country, and you’ll be made to feel part of the family as you celebrate the big day. Better yet, there is also a wide range of themed events, festive markets, and unique traditions to discover around Yorkshire’s major cities and rural towns.
Our recommended tour – Christmas in Yorkshire
The Peak District, England
If Christmas markets are more your pace, but you’d prefer not to travel long distance over the holiday season, the idyllic Peak District might be the perfect option. With suitably festive attractions taking place throughout December, and some truly spectacular wintry vistas on display, a Christmastime escape to the Peak District offers a slower-paced experience without compromising on the festive cheer. While here, be sure to visit Chatsworth House, one of the country’s most extravagant listed properties, for its annual Christmas celebrations.
Our recommended tour – Christmas in the Peak District
The top hotspots for warm-weather explorers
It might be the most wonderful time of the year, but the cold can get a bit much. If you’re keen to trade the December gloom for some winter sun, look no further than these three delightful Mediterranean hotspots.
Valletta, Malta
With its all-round winter warmth and welcoming atmosphere, Malta is a great option for Christmas with a difference. Whether you’d prefer to soak up the winter sun on the beach or venture out to the island’s colourful coastal cities, Malta caters to every taste and hosts some of the most extravagant Christmas celebrations in Europe. Try a traditional mqaret, a date-filled pastry, see the streets of Valletta decked in bells and holly, and perhaps attend mass at one of the island’s remarkable Cathedrals.
Our recommended tour – Christmas in Malta
The Algarve, Portugal
With a number of charming Portuguese towns and major coastal centres within easy reach, this memorable region offers an authentic taste of the country’s favourite festive traditions. While admiring Lisbon’s impressive light displays, you’ll have the chance to try a bolo rei, a festive Portuguese cake which traditionally has a fava bean hidden inside to symbolise fortune and the baby Jesus. On the country’s south coast, you can also take in Lagos’ Christmas Village and admire Olhao’s intricate nativity scenes.
Our recommended tour – Christmas on the Algarve
Famagusta, Cyprus
Pairing centuries-old heritage sites with lively town centres and sublime coastal stretches, Cyprus is a destination that doesn’t disappoint. Famagusta, which sits on the island’s east coast, showcases Cyprus’ rich cultural heritage and acts as the gateway to the Roman ruins at Salamis. There’s also rewarding exploration abound in the country’s divided capital, Nicosia, and the city embodies life on the Mediterranean with its cosmopolitan blend of cultures and customs. Better yet, those visiting throughout December can see the ruined Cathedrals and lively city streets decked in festive finery while enjoying the milder winter weather.
Our recommended tour – All-inclusive Christmas in Northern Cyprus
The best options for seasonal sightseers
From city breaks to scenic escapes in search of Europe’s most enthralling natural wonders, there are hundreds of wish-list sights to be enjoyed across the continental wintry landscapes.
Flåm, Norway
While Norway’s western fjords are a sight to behold all year round, the Arctic vistas are at their most dramatic throughout the festive period. Discover the treasures of Nærøyfjord on a scenic catamaran cruise and ride Flåm’s world-famous funicular through the idyllic snow-covered landscapes, before tucking into a Norwegian feast on the big day. With a touch of festive magic sprinkled throughout, and the opportunity to spot the spell-binding northern lights, this is northern Europe at its most enchanting.
Our recommended tour – Christmas in the Norwegian Fjords
Pajala, Lapland
Nestled on the border between Sweden and Finland, on the edge of the Arctic Circle, breath-taking Lapland is home to snow-dusted landscapes, cosy log cabins, and charming local wildlife, including wild huskies and reindeer. With exhilarating cold-weather activities and, of course, a meeting with the big man himself, there’s fun for the whole family to be had in this delightful region.
Our recommended tour – Lapland Santa Experience Day Trip
Vienna, Austria
Moving away from Europe’s striking winter wonderlands, the Austrian capital, lit by Christmas lights, is no less impressive. Better yet, you can combine sightseeing around the city’s major landmarks, including the Schönbrunn and Belvedere palaces, with visits to Vienna’s renowned Christkindlmarkt, which dominates the Rathausplatz (Town Hall Square) every winter. Here, you’ll find hundreds of stalls, serving warming traditional treats, artisanal handicrafts, and festive-themed souvenirs.
Our recommended tour – Vienna Christmas Markets
Make Christmas 2025 even more memorable with Newmarket Holidays
If you’re still looking for your dream Christmas getaway, why not browse the wish-list tours still on offer across our Late Escapes collection and take advantage of up to 20% in savings. Whether you’d prefer a cheer-inspiring Christmas market break or a relaxing escape to celebrate the big day, our friendly holiday planners are on hand to help you find your ideal getaway. Give them a call today to get the ball rolling or check out our full range of festive escapes on our dedicated Christmas and New Year breaks page. If you’d prefer an earlier escape, our Christmas Market tours offer the perfect start to the holiday season.
