One of the most wonderful times of the year is Christmas, and many nations have their own special ways of celebrating this joyous occasion. Every destination has its unique customs to make the holiday memorable, from sparkling lights to captivating marketplaces. Here is a list of some of the best places to travel around Christmas, along with information on how Indian passport holders must obtain a visa.
1. Germany
Germany, the birthplace of Christmas markets, provides a festive experience straight out of a fairy tale. Must-see locations include the well-known Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg and the Cathedral Christmas Market in Cologne. Traditional German treats, handcrafted ornaments, and mulled wine are available.
Visa Requirements: Germany is a member of the Schengen Area and has visa requirements. To enter, Indian nationals require a Schengen tourist visa.
Processing Time: 15 working days for processing
Documents Needed: Valid passport, travel itinerary, hotel reservations, travel insurance, and evidence of cash are required.
2. United States
The United States offers a variety of festivals, from the glittering Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York to joyous parades in Chicago. Winter wonderlands are created in theme parks such as Disneyland.
Visa Requirements: Indian nationals who wish to go to the US must get a B-2 tourist visa.
Processing Time: Usually takes a few weeks, but can vary.
Required documents : include a letter outlining the purpose of the trip, a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation, and evidence of finances.
3. The nation of Australia
Australia has a distinct Christmas experience because it falls during the summer. Special Christmas festivities are held at Bondi Beach, while cities like Sydney are decked out with carol concerts and decorations.
Visa Requirements: Indian nationals must have an Australian visitor visa (subclass 600).
Processing Time: 15–30 days for processing
Required documents: include a valid passport, proof of finances, tickets for the return trip, and a travel itinerary.
4. The United Kingdom
During Christmas, the UK becomes a jolly paradise. Famous events include carol services at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Edinburgh’s Christmas markets, and London’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland.
Visa Requirements: Indian nationals must have a UK Standard Visitor Visa.
Processing Time:About 15 working days are needed for processing.
Required documents: A valid passport, bank statements, return tickets, information on your accommodations, and a letter outlining the reason for your travel are required.
5. Canada
Enjoy a Canadian white Christmas, complete with picturesque holiday markets and snow-covered scenery. Vancouver and Quebec City are well-liked locations for Christmas festivities.
Visa Requirements: To enter Canada, Indian nationals must have a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).
Processing Time: 15–30 days for processing
Required documents include: a valid passport, evidence of finances, travel history, and, if relevant, an invitation letter.
6. France
France is known for its elegance, and this is also true of its Christmas festivities. Paris shines with its holiday lights, and Strasbourg boasts one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets.
Visa Requirements: Indian nationals must have a Schengen tourist visa because France is a member of the Schengen Area.
Processing Time: 15 working days for processing
Required documents include : a valid passport, proof of lodging, travel insurance, and enough cash.
7. Japan
In Japan, Christmas is a holiday celebrated with beautiful lights and distinctive customs. Festive cakes are a holiday mainstay, and cities like Tokyo and Osaka are decked out in decorations.
Visa Requirements: Indian nationals must have a tourist visa for Japan.
Processing Time: approximately five business days
Required Documents: Travel itinerary, passport, evidence of finances, and, if necessary, a letter of assurance.
8. Italy
Christmas is a religious and traditional holiday in Italy. Explore the charming markets of Florence and Rome or attend midnight mass at the Vatican.
Visa Requirements: Italy is a member of the Schengen Area, hence visa requirements apply. A Schengen tourist visa is required for Indian nationals.
Processing Time: 15 working days for processing
Required Documents: Required documents include a valid passport, proof of lodging, travel insurance, and enough cash.
9. Switzerland
Switzerland is the ideal place to celebrate Christmas because it is a winter wonderland. The nation offers a memorable vacation experience, from the lively marketplaces of Zurich to the picturesque alpine Alps.
Visa Requirements: Indian nationals must get a Schengen tourist visa.
Processing Time: 15 working days for processing
Required documents include: a valid passport, proof of lodging, travel insurance, and enough cash.
10. Singapore
Orchard Road in Singapore, with its lavish decorations and sparkling lights, is a Christmas wonderland. Another highlight is Gardens by the Bay’s Christmas Wonderland.
Visa Requirements: Indian nationals must get a Singapore tourist visa.
Processing Time: Three to five working days for processing
Required documents include: Passport, verified airline tickets, proof of lodging, and financial documentation are required.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Christmas Trip
Plan Ahead: Apply as far in advance as possible because visa processing can take a while.
Make sure you have full coverage for both medical emergencies and trip cancellations when you get travel insurance.
Pack Wisely: Consider the weather before making your selections.
With so many amazing places to pick from, you may make your Christmas genuinely unforgettable by discovering the joyous customs of another nation. To prevent stress at the last minute, remember to verify the criteria for your visa in advance. Merry Christmas and bon journey!