The holiday season can conjure up images that seem more like fiction. Some envision snowcapped mountains, while others feen for the bustling Holiday Markets instead of the conventional shopping mall. Wherever you’re celebrating the holidays, the chances that lawns will be lined with snow and the old-fashioned charm of village homes will be decorated with holiday cheer are slim.

 

Look at some of our picks of picture-perfect destinations that will make you feel like you stepped out of a Thomas Kincaid painting.

 

Three holiday destinations that will require you to pack snow boots and perhaps your skis as well. We looked for the best places that have the visual appeal and will give you the holiday backdrop you’re looking for. Let’s take a look.

 

 

Banff

Alberta Canada

 

Have you been dreaming of sleigh rides through a snow-covered village town where the houses and stores are lit in festive lights? Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a trip to Banff, where the mountain ranges provide the perfect backdrop to a lake town with sleigh rides, chocolate trails and a charming Christmas Market.

 

Our ideal itinerary includes:

 

- Say hello to Santa and shop local treats at the Banff Christmas Market.
- Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the majestic trails through Banff.
- Make a reservation at the Grizzly House for some fabulous fondue in a tavern-like setting.
- Tour the Hot Cholocate Trail and get a taste of the season with a variety of specialty hot chocolate drinks!

 

 

Salt Lake City, Utah

 

Welcome the sights and sounds of this festive time with a trip to Salt Lake City Utah, where you can blend cold-weather activities with the spirit of the season. Enjoy the city’s local scene along with its natural wonder with activities that will satisfy your holiday cheer and your need for adventure.

 

Here’s our perfect itinerary:

 

- Take a stroll through Temple Square to take in the beautiful lights and the captivating sounds of the Tabernacle Choir.

- Visit Olympic Park where you can experience bobsledding and see the home of the Winter Olympic Games in 2022.

- Watch The Nutcracker at the Capitol Theater!

 

 

Munich, Germany

 

Some destinations are worth crossing oceans for. Munich, Germany in December will transport you to a different time. The gothic architecture and old-world charm are embedded in the Bavarian capital. Look at our itinerary and before you scroll on, note we’ve got castles on the list!

 

- Visit “Munich Christkindlmarkt” – Munich’s spectacular Christmas Market that has dated back to the 14th century!
- You haven’t experienced the season until you’ve witnessed a snow-covered castle! Plan a day trip to Neushwantstein Castle for fantastic photos that will make you the envy of Instagram.
- Take a ride on the “Christmas Tram,” decorated with garland, festive lights and a free-roaming Santa.
- Enjoy some adventure at the Garmisch-Partenkirchen Ski Resort!

 

 

Washington, D.C.

 

Visit the capital of the United States to embrace the season no matter how you celebrate. Washington, DC is covered holiday cheer with a variety of sights to showcase the different ways to celebrate the season. No matter how you celebrate, you’ll enjoy the compellation of Christmas Trees and Channukah Menorahs.

 

- Attend the National Chanukah Menorah lighting on the Ellipse, across from the White House.
- Take a walk to the Milk Bar to take in some of the flavors of the season. Note, bring your appetite!
- Take a trip to the Downtown Holiday Market to shop unique holiday gifts.
- Watch A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theater for a holiday classic that will make you feel the season!

 

Zermatt, Switzerland

 

Perhaps one of the most breathtaking destinations on our list, Zermatt, Switzerland merges the spirit of the Swiss Alps with the spirit of the season. Enjoy skiing, skating, nightlife, and a charming Holiday Market while perusing a town lit with lights and hospitality.

 

Our Itinerary:

 

- Start with what the Swiss Alps are known for – SKIING! Ski the myriad of slopes in Zermatt that accommodates all skill levels.
- Celebrate the season with a toast to the night life located in walking distance from the slopes. Enjoy live music, beer at a local pub or dancing at a club.
- Nothing says the holidays like an ice-skating rink. Spend the day making the rounds on one of the ice rinks of Zermatt.

 

Happy Holidays and of course, Happy Tracking no matter where you go this holiday season!

 

Photo by Mike Kotsch on Unsplash

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