16 Travel Destinations That Are Overrated During Christmas

Sparkling lights, magical snowfalls, and festive cheer are usually the picture of Christmas. This makes for a perfect setting to get wanderlust going and dream about destinations with a holiday spirit. It’s not always the postcard-perfect fantasy reality. The streets are overcrowded, prices are skyrocketing and experiences are underwhelming and you’re left wondering if that dream trip was worth the effort.

These are beautiful destinations in their own right, but Christmas often means too many tourists and too much expense. Before you start packing your bags, let’s look at some places that may be better visited during a quieter season.

New York City

Christmas in New York is another scene from a movie: the Rockefeller Center tree, ice skating in Central Park, and window displays. In real life, those charming moments involve pushing through crowds of tourists and standing in long lines. Walking near Rockefeller Center can be overwhelming and makes it difficult to enjoy the festive spirit. If you want a more relaxed experience, visit in early December or after New Year.

Paris

Christmas in the City of Lights is just a little too bright, with crowds coming to see the Eiffel Tower, Champs Élysées, and department store décor. It’s also an expensive time to visit, with prices for hotels and dining soaring. Paris is beautiful, but the city’s magic is often lost in the holiday frenzy. If you want a more intimate Parisian experience, Spring might be the best time for you.

London

Christmas in London is an elaborate affair: Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, and festive markets. The city’s main attractions become incredibly crowded, and public transport is frequently shut down on holidays. When you combine chilly, damp weather with the experience, it can be more tiring than magical. September is London’s most gracious month when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner.

Dubai

Although Dubai is in the desert, it markets itself as a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The displays and events may be impressive but the holiday can feel artificial. The sheer number of visitors also makes it a patience exercise to navigate the attractions. For cooler weather and fewer crowds, visit in January or February and enjoy Dubai’s luxurious appeal.

Aspen

With its snowy slopes and luxurious lodges, Aspen is a magical Christmas destination, but it can cost an eye-watering amount. Ski passes, accommodations, and even dining experience severe inflation leaving you with less to enjoy the town’s charm. The slopes are usually crowded, and skiing is not as much fun. If you love the snow, consider visiting less well-known ski towns like Telluride or Crested Butte.

Venice

Christmas in Venice sounds romantic, but the canals get quieter, and the city is cold with damp weather that can detract from its charm. Restaurants and museums may operate shorter hours and have less to offer. Late spring is the best time to visit for cooler weather, when you’re more likely to enjoy the city’s beauty in full bloom.

Hawaii

For many, Hawaii is a dream destination but at Christmas, it attracts an influx of tourists looking to escape the cold. Beaches are crowded and accommodation is expensive. The islands are still stunning, but a more tranquil slice of paradise can be found in late April or early May.

Rome

With its festive ambiance and rich history, Rome draws tourists, but landmarks such as the Vatican and Colosseum can be tough to enjoy among the crowds. The hotels and restaurants are packed with inflated prices. October is a great time to visit Rome and appreciate its magic. The weather is still pleasant and crowds are manageable.

Disney World

Disney World at Christmas is a childhood dream come true, but it’s also one of the most crowded times of the year. The magic can become a marathon, with long lines, packed parades and exorbitant ticket prices. Visit in mid January and you’ll find shorter lines and a less chaotic atmosphere to enjoy the experience.

Reykjavik

The capital of Iceland promises Northern Lights and snowy landscapes, but sightseeing is difficult in December, as there is limited daylight. The weather could also be so unpredictable that plans can’t go on as anticipated. March is a better month to visit to get the most out of the Icelandic adventure with longer days and equally beautiful landscapes.

Santorini

The whitewashed buildings and blue domes of Santorini are iconic, but Christmas isn’t the best time to visit. The island is charming because it has a lively summer energy that just isn’t there in the winter. For that reason, many hotels and restaurants close for the season, and there are not many options for visitors. The island’s essence is much better captured by a summer visit.

Bangkok

While Bangkok’s streets are a feast for the senses, the city is a madhouse during Christmas. That translates to higher prices, more traffic, and longer waits at attractions. If you want a more authentic experience, the best time to go is November or February when the weather is more pleasant and the crowds are thinner.

The Maldives

Christmas in the Maldives with its turquoise waters and overwater bungalows is the height of luxury, but it means peak prices and a spike in visitors. If you can, visit in September or October when the costs are lower and the islands are still quiet.

Prague

At holiday time, Prague hosts hordes of tourists who flock to its Christmas markets and fairytale architecture. The city is definitely magical, but the overcrowded squares and high prices can detract from the charm. It’s also a similar ambiance without the hassle when you visit at the end of the fall season.

The Bahamas

Christmas means inflated costs and crowded resorts in the Bahamas and the crystal clear waters and sandy beaches are tempting winter escapes. The hurricane season ends in November, so it’s a great time to visit before the holiday rush.

Amsterdam

While Amsterdam’s canals and festive markets are fun Christmas attractions, the cold weather, and busy streets can be less fun. The tulips that bloom in this iconic city are nicer around early spring.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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