Joanna Fantozzi contributed to a previous version of this story.
20.11.2023 - 10:53 / nationalgeographic.com / Christmas Market
The most magical Christmas experiences are made of ice and snow. So wrap your loved ones up and hit the ice at these ice skating rinks across the UK.
16 November 2023 - 2 January 2024
Part of the city's sparkling Winter Wonderland funfair, this covered rink is see-through, allowing views of Cardiff Castle while being sheltered from the elements. For further fun on the ice, travel down the Ice Walk that extends through the grounds for 150m with a breathtaking backdrop of the Norman Keep.
15 November 2023 - 14 January 2024
The capital positively glitters with skating rinks over the festive season. The most magical is at Somerset House, where a skate school with over-8s slots and wheelchair sessions make the ice accessible to all. Treat yourself post-skating with the Skate Extras at the Chalet Suisse in the West Wing of Somerset House, including a sharing gourmet hot chocolate and chocolate fondues.
28 October 2023 - 7 January 2024
Those summer scorchers at the seaside might be a distant memory, but there's still reason to head to the coast this Christmas. Set against the city's Indo-Saracenic-style former royal residence, Brighton's green-energy ice rink has special free sessions for under-5s, and warming offers at the Rinkside Bar & Kitchen range, from hot chocolate with marshmallows to ginger wine and craft beers.
(A guide to Brighton.)
18 November 2023 - 6 January 2024
When you've had your fill of the Christmas Markets along Princes Street, make your way to West George St to enjoy a glide across the ice. Fixed between Castle Street and Charlotte Square, the covered rink makes its mark with its scenic backdrop of the City Chambers.
17 November - 3 January 2024
After a stroll through Bath's Christmas Market, slip away to their uncovered ice rink that perfects the festive atmosphere with real ice and a backdrop of the glittering night sky overhead. This Winter Wonderland comes with seasonal favourites, including spiced mulled wine and cider at their heated outdoors bar.
Joanna Fantozzi contributed to a previous version of this story.
Based on a record 600,000 votes by travelers from 168 countries worldwide, the European Best Destinations (EBD) organization has unveiled its list of “the most beautiful Christmas markets to visit 2023-24.”
Hidden away in the snowy north of Finland is Santa’s Official Post Office. The sorting center, located in Rovaniemi, is expected to receive over 30,000 letters daily from children and adults around the world this year. In a bid to attract novice elves, Santa Claus’ Cabin has been listed on Airbnb for guests—free of charge—to roll up their sleeves, lend a hand with the backlog of letters and experience the joy of the holiday season from the Arctic Circle.
Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or carving fresh tracks in powder, each place holds its unique charm.
The addition of the four new destinations comes in response to continued demand from customers and independent travel agents. The additions provide them with even more choice when it comes to booking a sunshine holiday or city break in Summer 24 and Summer 25.
Interval International operates membership programs for vacationers and provides value-added services to its developer clients worldwide.
Hotel located just a few miles from pristine gulf beaches.
Τourism and events industry celebrated at National Final.
LOT Polish Airlines is reinstating flights to Athens. LOT Polish Airlines aircraft will be flying to the capital of Greece all year round.
There’s no denying that the power of libations brings people together—and there’s simply nothing like toasting to the holiday season with Christmas drinks that are essentially crafted cocktails. This year is a perfect excuse to sip your way into one-of-a-kind Christmas traditions, celebrated around the globe.
There’s something truly magical about meandering through a Christmas market with a glass of hot wine or apple cider in hand. The sights, sounds and smells of the market—wherever you are in the world—make it hard not to get into the spirit of teh season.
What’s your holiday vibe: Gilded Age splendor, Hallmark-movie gazebos or Bavarian-style Christmas villages? Americans have always loved decking the halls. Case in point, we’ve sought out ten of the best places in the USA to visit during this magical season, no matter what your Yuletide style is.