10 Most Festive Christmas Hotels This Holiday Season 

The Plaza in New York, NY, is a quintessential New York holiday destination in the heart of Manhattan, next to Central Park. This legendary festive hotel truly shines during the holiday season with sparkling lights adorning every corner and the grand Christmas tree dominating the lobby.

A major part of the Plaza’s holiday appeal is its special holiday packages, such as the “Suitest Season of All” package, which includes a 7-ft decorated Christmas tree in your suite, and the Home Alone 2 package where you can relive scenes from this beloved holiday classic. Enjoy decadent holiday-themed afternoon teas, toast the holidays at the famous Champagne Bar, or indulge in holiday specials at the Palm Court restaurant.

Come and meet Santa in the heart of Lapland at Santa Claus Holiday Village in Rovaniemi, Finland. Located just a 7-minute drive from Rovaniemi city center, this beautifully decorated snowy village features cozy cottages, each equipped with a private sauna, ideal for warming up after a day of snowy adventures.

There’s no shortage of winter adventures at this hotel, from husky rides and ice fishing to guided snowshoe trips. For special Christmas-related activities, explore the Santa Claus Main Post Office, take a reindeer sleigh ride under the northern lights, and meet Santa Claus himself. As you’re right on the Arctic Circle, don’t miss the chance to cross the magical line and snap that perfect Christmas card photo.

During the holiday season, The Roosevelt in New Orleans, LA, offers an unforgettable festive atmosphere with over 100,000 lights and 4,000 glass ornaments sparkling in its grand lobby. Located just a short walk from the French Quarter, the city’s historic heart, this hotel is a New Orleans landmark renowned for its stunning annual Christmas decorations. Elegantly decorated rooms, world-class spa, and fine dining options make your stay even brighter.

If you decide to pop out of the Waldorf Wonderland, check out the events at Lafayette Square or enjoy the charming shops at the French Quarter. If you’re traveling with children, don’t miss The Roosevelt’s famous Teddy Bear Tea, featuring pastries, hot chocolate, storytelling, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The Inn at Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge, TN, is a cozy Christmas-themed hotel that puts you in the holiday spirit all year round, but truly dazzles during the holiday season. Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, this Bavarian-themed hotel boasts spacious Christmas-decorated rooms, a heated Winter Wonderland lagoon and outdoor pool, and some rooms even feature gas fireplaces and in-room whirlpools.

Freshly baked cookies at bedtime, a hot breakfast, and visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus make this an ideal holiday destination for families. For more holiday cheer, visit The Incredible Christmas Place, a massive Christmas shopping village across the street, where you’ll find everything you need for your holiday shopping.

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, 20 miles from downtown San Antonio, TX, transforms into a cheerful wonderland with an array of delightful Christmas amenities. As you enter the beautifully decorated lobby, the towering Christmas tree and twinkling lights instantly put you in the holiday mood. Another wonderful touch are the cozy fire pits, where you can gather with loved ones to sip hot cocoa and roast marshmallows.

One of the holiday-themed events is ICE! featuring Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” where ice sculptures bring the beloved story to life. You can also purchase tickets to annual holiday favorites like the Snow Flow Mountain ride or enjoy creative activities at the gingerbread decorating corner.

Christmas at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Scottsdale, AZ, is all about traditions. Located 11 miles north of downtown Scottsdale, this luxurious resort has been a premier holiday destination for 15 merry years, dazzling with 10 million sparkling lights, a 4-story Enchanted Plaza tree, an ice skating rink, and fire tables and igloos.

The hotel boasts 65 acres of Christmas magic, an area so expansive that you need a map to navigate. Highlights include a 120-ft Ferris wheel at the Christmas Village, colorful light shows at the Enchanted Plaza, and opportunities to meet Santa and other holiday characters. Book a stay at the hotel to receive complimentary admission to the Christmas festival and VIP wristbands for express access to the attractions.

The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, VA, is stunning with its historical grandeur, but it becomes truly magical during the Christmas season. The elegant lobby and grand staircase lead you to a breathtaking 30-ft Christmas tree in the rotunda, adorned with hundreds of decorations and glittering lights. Located in the heart of downtown Richmond, this historic hotel is serious with its decorations, including hundreds of poinsettias, yards of garland, and thousands of twinkle lights.

Book a sumptuous holiday brunch or a special Christmas Eve or Christmas Day dinner, perfect for jolly celebrations with your loved ones. Don’t miss the annual handcrafted gingerbread display whose theme varies by year or the daily holiday teas that promise delightful treats and festive cheer.

Located on the famous Las Vegas Strip, the luxurious Bellagio in Las Vegas, NV, celebrates the holidays in true Las Vegas style. Every winter, it puts on its best with its opulent decorations, transforming its iconic Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens into a magical holiday paradise. The stunning displays feature thousands of twinkling lights, festive flowers, carousel horses, and a towering Christmas tree, topped with a Swarovski crystal star. In this enchanting garden, every detail has been considered with care.

As you marvel at the stunning displays, visit the Peppermint Express to enjoy holiday pastries, freshly popped popcorn, and hot drinks. To cap off your evening, check out the Fountains of Bellagio’s holiday shows, perfectly timed to classic Christmas tunes.

Touted as the world’s first luxury hotel, The Ritz Paris in Paris, France, is just as opulent and glamorous during the festive season as you might imagine. Located in the heart of the city, this iconic hotel dazzles with enchanting décor, from sparkling teddy bears and shimmering butterflies to beautiful flowers and the large Christmas tree at the foot of the grand staircase.

Gastronomic pleasures are a major draw at this hotel during the holiday season. Enjoy sumptuous brunches or the special Christmas Gourmet tea, featuring mouthwatering seasonal pastries like spiced cakes and madeleines filled with chestnut cream. Nearby, the Christmas markets along the Champs-Élysées and the stunning window displays at Galeries Lafayette whisper the enchanting magic of Paris.

The Mozart Prague in Prague, Czech Republic, is a charming blend of tradition and luxury, featuring crystal chandeliers and spacious rooms with 18th-century frescoes. Located just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town Square, this elegant hotel captivates with its opulent decorations, with the majestic Christmas tree in the historical courtyard taking center stage.

During the first advent weekend, the hotel’s courtyard hosts a Charity Advent Market, spreading holiday cheer for a good cause. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the hotel’s weekly changing seasonal menu, featuring dishes like goose liver parfait and turkey breast roulade. For a truly unforgettable experience, attend a Christmas concert in one of the historic churches and explore the famous Christmas markets in Old Town Square.