From winter wonderlands to local escapes: Top Christmas destinations visited by the hosts of Getaway
The holiday season is in full swing!
Whether you're dreaming of a festive escape, or being whisked away for some rest and relaxation, it's no surprise Christmas time is one of the most popular times to book a vacation.
Stream the latest Getaway episodes for free on 9Now.
And if you're in need of some inspiration, the Getaway hosts have tried and tested just some of their favourite destinations.
Read on to find which destination made Australia's top pick!
Queensland, Australia
Topping the most-searched family destinations in 2024 on Airbnb is Broadbeach, Queensland.
Packed with family-friendly attractions, stunning beaches, world-class resorts, dining and Australia's best theme parks just a day trip away, the Gold Coast is a vibrant summer destination.
It's also Australia's most popular destination over the festive season, according to exclusive data obtained by TODAY.
Surfers Paradise on Queensland's Gold Coast in Australia Getty Images/iStockphoto
With caravan parks along the coast, and deals outside peak times and peak areas, there is plenty of Queensland to go around – and suit any family budget.
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If you're after thrills and festive fun, Movie World is transforming into the Gold Coast's very own white Christmas.
Don't miss the white Christmas parade featuring a spectacular extravaganza of magical lights and incredible floats from around the world.
Equally popular is Far North Queensland, home to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, as well as stunning coastal locations like Cairns, Airlie Beach and Cape York.
Need inspo? Don't miss Getaway's Airlie Beach guide below:
New York City, USA
If you're dreaming of a white Christmas with winter holiday magic and spectacular Christmas decorations, NYC is the place to be.
A view of the Rockefeller Plaza ice skating rink with the annual Christmas tree. Getty
Wander through Central Park with a cup of hot cocoa, try your luck at ice skating and after a day of shopping, take in the world-famous 70-foot Christmas tree at the Rockefeller Centre.
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With over 50,000 LED lights, it's a must-see holiday attraction.
Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister in the 1992 film Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Twentieth Century Fox
Of course, don't miss The Rockettes at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular!
Getaway host Jason Dundas finds his way through the vibrant Big Apple in the video below:
Singapore
This stunning destination is featured often on Getaway – for good reason! It's not just food and shopping that Singapore does well, the bustling city is packed with family fun.
The famous Gardens By The Bay in Singapore Getty
Children and family are at the centre of Singaporean culture, and it's reflected in the sheer range of family friendly activities on offer.
From famous Sentosa Island to Universal Studios and Singapore Zoo, host Charli Robinson explores Singapore for families here:
During the Christmas period, you won't want to miss Singapore's extravagant Christmas light-ups, icy activities, festive magic as you explore Gardens by the Bay and of course, indulge in a Singapore Christmas feast.
A Euro Christmas
Christmas in Europe? Where do we begin!
Christmas in Australia is all about hot days and cool pools, but it is very different in Europe.
The Nuremberg Christmas Market in Nuremberg, Germany. AP
This wintery wonderland provides the perfect scene for a white Christmas with mulled wine, festive food and beautiful Christmas markets.
Catch ice rinks, frozen canals and learn about Saint Nicklaus in Amsterdam.
Bamberg is home to one of Europe's best preserved old town areas and at Christmas is best known for its nativity trail.
If you prefer cruising, the picturesque German towns along the Main and Rhine rivers are nothing short of magical.
Below, Getaway host Nick Buckley takes a Scenic Christmas Market cruise through Europe:
Jervis Bay, Australia
Planning on setting up camp over Christmas?
Just a few short hours south of Sydney is one of Australia's most favourite beaches, Hyams Beach, NSW.
Located in the small coastal town of Huskisson, this pocket of paradise and its surrounding towns are home to more than 90 kilometers of natural beaches.
Famously, Hyams Beach has been named multiple times for having the whitest sand in the world.
See for yourself as Getaway host Sam McClymont visits Jervis Bay here:
The beach is surrounded by caravan parks, camping grounds and national parkland which is a hotspot for campers and hikers over the summer holiday period.
Bali, Indonesia
A perennial favourite for Aussies, Bali offers beachside luxury, family-friendly villas and warm tropical celebrations.
Beach bars in Seminyak, Bali. Getty
Of course, Bali doesn't necessarily scream 'Christmas' getaway. But it sure is a popular spot for Aussies over the summer break.
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Think: seafood on the beach, fireworks and a little R&R after an incredibly big year!
Getaway host Lincoln Lewis unwinds along the beautiful Bingin Beach in Bali below:
