Planning solo travel for Christmas or New Year just got easier! Whether you want to skip the commercialism, discover unique cultures, or enjoy an unforgettable holiday experience, these solo travel destinations offer something special for every female adventurer.
This guide is packed with ideas for Christmas vacations for singles and solo New Year's Eve trips, highlighting the best solo travel destinations in December.
Why Spend Christmas or New Year’s Solo?
Solo holidays can be freeing and inspiring. Travelers like Alison love using their time off to explore. She shares, “I escaped the commercialism, tricky family dynamics, and repetitive traditions, and instead embraced diverse cultural celebrations.”
If you're considering where to go alone for Christmas, the magic of experiencing local traditions and the joy of finding serenity in a bustling world await you.
What to Do on the Major Holiday Dates?
Traveling during the holiday season is a magical experience. With festive lights, bustling markets, cheerful music, and the scent of freshly baked treats in the air, it feels as though every corner of the world is celebrating. People are often warm and welcoming, making it an especially joyous time for solo travelers. Here’s a list of ideas to make your Christmas travel for singles or New Year solo trip entirely unique.
Take a Day Tour
Holiday closures don’t have to stop your adventure! Many cities offer special day tours, even on Christmas or New Year’s. For example, I once joined a bus tour in London on Christmas Day that visited Windsor, Bath, and Stonehenge. The experience was magical, with plenty of solo travelers onboard. We even enjoyed a festive Christmas lunch by a cozy fire in an English countryside pub. Day tours can be an unforgettable way to make the most of a quiet holiday.
Volunteer for a Worthy Cause
What better way to capture the holiday spirit than by giving back? Consider volunteering your time at a local shelter, church, or community center. Many organizations are in need of extra hands during the holidays, and you’ll often find yourself sharing a meal and warm company in return. This is a powerful way to connect with others while creating heartwarming memories.
Dine Out for a Festive Meal
Many hotel restaurants host festive dinners over the holidays, making them a convenient and lively option for solo travelers. These spots attract guests who are also far from home, creating a sense of camaraderie. Be sure to reserve a table in advance, as holiday dinners can fill up fast. If you’re traveling to a major city, you can likely find guides listing which restaurants are open for holiday meals.
Treat Yourself with a Cozy Night In
If you prefer a quiet evening, why not prepare your own special celebration? Stock up on your favorite treats before shops close, and create a holiday feast tailored to your tastes. With no rush to sightsee, you can indulge in a relaxing bath, watch a favorite movie, or settle in with a good book. It’s the perfect time to pause, recharge, and enjoy your own company.
Stroll Through the Streets
The empty streets during the holidays offer a rare glimpse of your destination’s charm. With fewer people and vehicles around, you can take your time admiring the architecture, capturing photos, and enjoying the twinkling holiday lights. A peaceful walk can be a beautiful way to experience the city in a unique light.
Travel on the Holiday Itself
Flying on Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or even the day itself can come with unexpected perks. Airports and flights are often quieter, ticket prices might be lower, and you might even score a seat upgrade. Traveling on these dates can be surprisingly stress-free, giving you a strong start to your next adventure.
Attend a Choir or Church Service
Check if local churches are hosting special holiday services. Whether or not you observe the day, attending a choir performance or service can be a moving and memorable experience. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in local traditions and soak up the warmth of the season.
Join a Tour or Holiday Cruise
If planning every detail of your trip feels overwhelming, consider booking a guided tour or holiday cruise. These options take the hassle out of holidays by organizing everything for you. All you need to do is show up and enjoy! Engage in the planned activities you like and skip the ones you don’t, all without worrying about logistics.
Each of these options provides a unique way to celebrate and enjoy the holidays as a solo traveler. With a little creativity and a sense of adventure, you’ll discover that there’s always something special to do during the festive season, no matter where you are.
Christmas in London or Paris? A Magical Dilemma
Choosing between Christmas vacations for singles in London and Paris is no easy task. Both cities dazzle with enchantment during the festive period, offering experiences that go beyond their year-round charm. While either destination could easily sit alongside other holiday travel favorites, London and Paris deserve special focus for the sheer magic they bring to Christmas and New Year’s. Here’s what solo travelers can look forward to in each city.
London Over Christmas and New Year’s
London shines brightly during the holidays, offering memorable festivities and experiences tailored for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re strolling through dazzling streets or enjoying traditional Christmas events, the city ensures your holiday feels extra special.
Holiday Highlights in London
- Covent Garden: This car-free area buzzes with charm during the holidays. Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment surrounded by twinkling lights and festive decorations.
- Kew Gardens: Don’t miss the annual after-dark festivities at this iconic botanical garden. Walk through sparkling tunnels of light, admire shimmering lakeside reflections, and warm up near the mesmerizing fire garden.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: This historic landmark is stunning year-round, but during the holidays, it hosts festive concerts that are worth attending, whether or not you’re Anglican.
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland: Open from mid-November to early January, this event is packed with shows, rides, and pure holiday joy. Book your tickets online ahead of time.
- Oxford Street to Carnaby Street: Take a stroll from the iconic Oxford Street Christmas lights to the trendy, pedestrian-only Carnaby Street. Along the way, soak in the festive atmosphere and indulge in unique shopping.
- City Cruises and Tours: Hop aboard a Thames River cruise or an open-top bus to explore London as it comes alive with holiday spirit.
Paris Over Christmas and New Year’s
Paris sparkles during the holiday season, blending romance and festivity into an unmatched experience. With its elegant lights, lively markets, and rich cultural offerings, solo travelers will find endless ways to immerse themselves in the City of Light’s holiday magic.
Holiday Highlights in Paris
- Champs Élysées: This iconic boulevard is spectacularly adorned with millions of lights. A walk here is essential for soaking in the festive atmosphere.
- Tuileries Garden Magie de Noël: Paris’ largest Christmas market sits in the charming Tuileries Garden. Enjoy delicious seasonal treats, browse artisan crafts in the "Artisan Village," and revel in the carnival fun.
- Skating: Lace up your skates or watch others glide across the ice at seasonal rinks, such as the one at Tuileries Garden.
- Holiday Window Displays: Visit Printemps Haussmann or Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann for extravagant holiday displays. Don’t miss their rooftop views for a stunning panorama of the city.
- The Arts: Attend a concert, opera, or ballet to add a touch of culture to your festivities. Language isn’t a barrier when you’re enjoying beautiful music or a classic performance.
- City Cruises and Tours: Like London, Paris offers river cruises and guided tours during the holidays. Admire the enchanting city lights as you float along the Seine or ride atop a cozy open-top bus.
Both London and Paris have their own unique holiday magic, from London’s festive markets to Paris’ romantic lights. Whichever you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable Christmas and New Year celebration as a solo traveler.
Global Recommendations for Solo Female Travelers
Europe
- Prague, Czech Republic – Renowned for its dreamy Christmas markets and Old Town magic with classical concerts and chimney cakes to savor.
- Vienna, Austria – Picture-perfect markets, festive vibes, and enchanting streets light up Vienna during December.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands – Twinkling canals and holiday light displays make this city unforgettable for the holidays.
Asia
- Japan – From holiday lights in Hiroshima to Kyoto’s iconic temple bells, Japan offers a serene yet festive break.
- Vietnam (Hoi An) – A cultural gem, often lit by lanterns, best explored at a slower pace during the holidays.
Americas
- Hawaii, USA – Swap snow for palm trees and spend your Christmas relaxing under the Hawaiian sun.
- Cusco, Peru – Marvel at the incredible holiday market on December 24th and discover traditional cultural nativity scenes.
- Quebec, Canada – A snowy celebration filled with quaint traditions, perfect for skiing or sipping hot cocoa by the fire.
You may also want to know more options, please read: Best Solo Travel Destinations for Women in Their 30s
Top Tips for Planning Your Solo Holiday
1. Choose Your Vibe
Do you want somewhere buzzing with celebrations, or a serene escape? Destinations like London and Paris offer plenty of festive cheer, while off-the-beaten-path places like Iceland or Peru guarantee peace and adventure.
2. Book Early
Holiday destinations, especially those with Christmas markets, hotel packages, or New Year’s Eve events, tend to fill up quickly. Secure accommodations and activities in advance!
3. Pack Smart
Consider versatile layers to adjust to chilly outdoor festivities or cozy indoor evenings.
4. Connect with Communities
Solo travel doesn’t mean being alone! Join local or online groups for solo travelers to compare tips.
Will You Feel Lonely Traveling Solo?
It’s a valid concern to think about spending the holidays solo, but many travelers actually report feeling more connected—both to locals and themselves.
Take it from an experienced female traveler, who shares, “I never feel lonely because I view solo Christmases as an escape into culture and community.”
With activities like holiday tours or joining travelers cooking events, you’re bound to meet like-minded adventurers ready for their next cup of mulled wine or a group photo near festive lights.
Start Planning Your Magical Solo Holiday
From festive markets to serene adventures, these destinations ensure your Christmas or New Year’s is as special as you are. Which destination speaks to your wanderlust?
