10 Old Fashioned Christmas Towns

The best Christmas towns around the world are a sight to behold. Here are ten of them you won’t want to miss.

The holiday season is a time when many of us yearn for a simpler, more nostalgic Christmas experience. One way to capture that timeless magic is by visiting old-fashioned Christmas towns that transport you back in time with their charming decorations, festive traditions, and warm community spirit.

Christmas Towns You Have To See

Here’s the list of the top 10 picks of the best Christmas towns you have to see this year.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a medieval town in Bavaria, Germany, is a fairytale come to life during Christmas. Its well-preserved medieval architecture is adorned with twinkling lights, and the Christmas market in the town square is a true delight. Visitors can savor traditional German treats like bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine while exploring the town’s cobbled streets and shops offering handmade ornaments and gifts.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Cobblestone streets are lined with historic homes decked out in holiday finery, and the annual Christmas Stroll, a cherished tradition since 1973, features a delightful parade, carolers, and beautifully decorated storefronts. Nantucket offers the quintessential New England Christmas experience.

Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland

For those seeking a Christmas town straight out of a storybook, Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, is a dream come true. Located in the Arctic Circle, this charming town is covered in snow, and visitors can meet Santa himself at the Santa Claus Village.

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is a quintessential New England town that exudes old-fashioned charm year-round, but it truly shines during Christmas. With its picturesque covered bridge, the town square becomes the center of festive activities. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, admire the beautifully decorated historic homes, and find unique gifts in the local shops. The Woodstock Inn & Resort adds a touch of luxury to the Christmas experience with its cozy atmosphere and holiday-themed events.

Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, often called the “Capital of Christmas,” is home to one of Europe’s oldest and most enchanting Christmas markets. The historic town center comes alive with hundreds of stalls offering handcrafted ornaments, regional treats, and holiday decorations. Strasbourg’s Cathedral of Notre Dame is illuminated with stunning light displays, creating a magical backdrop for visitors exploring the market.

Durango, Colorado

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Durango, Colorado, embraces the Christmas season with a blend of frontier history and holiday cheer. The historic downtown area is beautifully decorated, and the annual Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad’s Polar Express Train Ride is a favorite for families looking for a unique holiday experience.

Bath, England, United Kingdom

The town’s historic streets and squares are adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations during Christmas. The Bath Christmas Market, set against Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths backdrop, features over 150 stalls offering unique gifts and artisanal treats. Visitors can also enjoy traditional carol concerts and ice skating in the picturesque Royal Victoria Park.

Santa Claus, Indiana

With a name like Santa Claus, this town in Indiana is destined to be a Christmas wonderland. Santa Claus, Indiana, embraces its festive identity with open arms, featuring attractions like the Santa Claus Christmas Store, Santa’s Candy Castle, and the Santa Claus Museum and Village. The town is known for its elaborate Christmas light displays and the annual Santa Claus Land of Lights.

Quebec City, Canada

With its charming Old Town and European flair, Quebec City is a magical destination for Christmas lovers. The Christmas markets in Place Royale and around Old Quebec offer a taste of French Canadian holiday traditions, including delicious treats like tourtière and maple syrup treats.

Aspen, Colorado

The snowy landscape, twinkling lights, and Victorian architecture create a postcard-perfect holiday setting. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports during the day and attend festive events like the annual 12 Days of Aspen celebration, which includes carolers, ice skating, and visits from Santa Claus. Aspen offers a unique blend of mountain adventure and old-fashioned holiday charm.

Whether you’re strolling through cobblestone streets, savoring traditional treats, or meeting Santa Claus himself, these towns embody the magic of Christmas in a way that is both heartwarming and timeless. Plan a visit to one of these charming destinations and create lasting memories of an old-fashioned Christmas experience.