For those seeking the pinnacle of holiday elegance, from alpine getaways to sun-soaked paradises, here is a curated list of the most luxurious holiday destinations in the world. These top luxury vacation destinations offer not only the finest in accommodations and experiences but also create memories steeped in the magical spirit of the season.
1. St. Moritz, Switzerland – A Winter Wonderland
Nestled in the Swiss Alps, St. Moritz is synonymous with glamour and world-class skiing making it a luxury European vacation destination since the 19th century. Over the holidays, it transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, festive markets, and breathtaking mountain views. Stay at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, a historical icon offering opulent suites, gourmet dining, and private mountain excursions. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the frozen Lake St. Moritz, or attend the Christmas concert at the legendary St. Moritz Festival. For families, the kids can enjoy beginner ski lessons while adults explore the après-ski scene with Champagne and views of the Alps.
2. Aspen, Colorado, USA – The Peak of American Festivities
Aspen is a luxurious alpine escape that offers unparalleled skiing, designer shopping, and fine dining. During the holidays, the town dazzles with holiday lights, ice sculptures, and charming boutique shops brimming with gifts. Stay at The Little Nell, where families can enjoy a cozy atmosphere, ski-in/ski-out access, and child-friendly amenities for a luxury family vacation. Don’t miss the Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony at the base of Aspen Mountain and explore nearby snowshoe trails or ice skating rinks with the family. Afterward, retreat for some hot chocolate by the fire or indulge in an exclusive snowcat stargazing tour.
3. St. Barts, Caribbean – A Glamorous Island Retreat
Known for its exclusivity and sophisticated charm, St. Barts transforms into a vibrant and luxurious paradise over the holiday season, drawing in visitors from around the world. For a luxury Caribbean vacation, stay at the Eden Rock St Barths, a famed hotel nestled on a stunning beach, with private villas and personalized services tailored to every guest. For the holidays, the island offers exclusive events such as beachside bonfires, elegant dinners under the stars, and live music performances. St. Barts’ stylish nightlife scene, featuring celebrity-attended holiday parties, brings an added flair to the season.
4. Lapland, Finland – A Real-Life Christmas Village
Known as the official home of Santa Claus, Lapland is an unforgettable holiday destination. Families can stay at Arctic TreeHouse Hotel for a cozy and immersive experience, with rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer perfect views of the Northern Lights. Enjoy reindeer sleigh rides, visits to Santa’s village, or an ice fishing adventure. Children can explore Santa’s Workshop and meet “real” elves, while adults can sip hot mulled wine and enjoy a private Northern Lights tour. With endless snow-covered landscapes, this magical setting feels straight out of a fairy tale.
5. Paris, France – A Classic Holiday Romance
Paris during the holiday season glows with elegance, from glittering avenues to festive window displays. For a refined experience, stay at the Ritz Paris, a legendary hotel in the heart of the city. Visit the illuminated Champs-Élysées, marvel at the ornate decorations of the Galeries Lafayette, and ice skate under the Eiffel Tower. Families can enjoy the Christmas market at Tuileries Garden or indulge in seasonal treats at Ladurée. Paris, with its romance and tradition, offers a magical backdrop for a holiday getaway with loved ones.
6. Kyoto, Japan – A Zen-Inspired Winter Retreat
Kyoto provides a peaceful holiday escape with tranquil temples, stunning gardens, and cultural experiences. Stay at the Aman Kyoto to enjoy serene luxury surrounded by nature. During the New Year season, partake in traditional celebrations such as Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, where temples are beautifully decorated. Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, light a candle at Kiyomizu-dera, and enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Families will love the snow-covered landscapes and cultural immersion that Kyoto provides, making it a one-of-a-kind holiday destination.
7. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – Italian Alps Elegance
Nestled in the heart of the Italian Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo is Italy’s crown jewel for winter luxury, especially during the holiday season. Known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” this alpine town is a beloved destination for high-end travelers seeking a luxury Italy vacation with both the thrill of winter sports and the warmth of Italian holiday traditions. Book a stay at the Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, where historic elegance meets modern luxury. The hotel offers stunning views, refined dining, and a world-class spa that allows guests to unwind after a day on the slopes.
The town transforms over the holidays, adorned with festive lights and charming Christmas markets filled with handmade gifts, artisanal foods, and holiday decorations. Visitors can enjoy skiing down some of Europe’s finest slopes, snowshoeing through serene forests, or taking scenic gondola rides with views of snow-covered peaks. For a magical holiday experience, join the Christmas Eve processions through town or listen to carolers in the bustling town square.
8. Hawaii, USA – A Tropical Escape
For those looking to escape the winter chill, Hawaii offers a luxurious holiday experience with lush landscapes and Hawaiian traditions. Book a stay at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, where families can enjoy hula dancing, ukulele lessons, and private snorkeling excursions. The resort hosts a special Christmas luau, bringing together local flavors and festive performances. Children can join the Kids for All Seasons program, which offers holiday-themed activities. Hawaii’s natural beauty and aloha spirit create an unforgettable holiday paradise.
9. Vienna, Austria – A Festive European Escape
Vienna sparkles over the holidays, with its grand architecture, world-class concerts, and bustling Christmas markets. Stay at the Hotel Sacher Wien to experience old-world elegance in a prime location near the Vienna State Opera. Take in a classical concert at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, or explore Schönbrunn Palace’s Christmas market, where local crafts and mulled wine await. Families will appreciate the Vienna Zoo’s seasonal lights and the Wiener Eistraum ice skating rink. Vienna’s charm is timeless, providing a fairytale ambiance for holiday travelers.
10. Sydney, Australia – A Summer Holiday Extravaganza
Sydney offers a unique holiday experience with warm weather, outdoor celebrations, and world-famous fireworks over Sydney Harbour on New Year’s Eve. Stay at the Park Hyatt Sydney for stunning views of the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. Take a sunset cruise, explore Bondi Beach’s festive markets, or visit Taronga Zoo for holiday animal encounters. Families can join the festive Sydney Santa Spectacular or enjoy seaside activities like surfing. Sydney’s lively atmosphere and beachside celebrations make it a dazzling choice for holiday revelers.
Luxury Holiday Travel for Families
For those seeking luxury family travel over the holidays, many of these destinations cater to children with creative activities and kid-friendly amenities. In St. Moritz and Aspen, young skiers can enjoy gentle slopes with expert instructors, while Hawaii offers unique holiday programs ranging from cultural workshops to fun-filled excursions. Resorts in the Caribbean provide supervised children’s clubs, giving parents the chance to unwind. Vienna’s Christmas markets and Lapland’s Santa Village bring the magic of the season to life for young travelers, while destinations like Kyoto provide cultural immersion in a family-friendly setting. Whether it’s a warm beach or a winter wonderland, these destinations ensure that families can share in the magic and beauty of the holiday season.
Making Memories to Last a Lifetime
These luxury holiday vacations bring together the best of travel, culture, and festivity, making each destination a special place to celebrate the season. From snowy alpine villages to sunlit islands, each location offers its own unique charm and opportunities for unforgettable experiences. For families, couples, or solo travelers, these top destinations combine the allure of luxury with the magic of the holidays, creating the perfect setting to celebrate in style. Contact us to book your next vacation!
