Lifestyle

Dubai is the world's fourth prettiest city at Christmas

16 Nov 2023

Photo used for illustrative purposes.

Gulf Today Report

A new study from Travelbag analyzes Instagram and Google search data to reveal the most festive cities

London is crowned the world’s most picturesque destination at Christmas, with over 270,000 Instagram posts tagged #ChristmasinLondon

Austin, Texas is declared the most festive city in the US, with over 1,200 searches per 10,000 people for festive terms in November and December

Regional Destination Manager Sheryl Drane shares advice on the best destinations to visit during the festive season

November 2023: A new study from long-haul holiday specialists Travelbag analyzed Instagram hashtags for 100 of the best-rated cities worldwide, to reveal the most picturesque destinations at Christmas. The research also crowns the most festive cities in the US, looking at Google search volume for festive terms such as ‘Christmas market’, ‘Christmas movies’ and ‘Christmas songs’ for the 30 most populated cities in the country.

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London is crowned the world’s most picturesque destination at Christmas, with over 270,000 Instagram posts tagged #ChristmasinLondon

With over 270,000 Instagram hashtags, London stands out as the world’s most picturesque destination during the festive period. With the thousands of Christmas lights hanging from the capital’s high streets, tourists can gaze upon the dazzling views as they do their Christmas shopping. Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland will also get visitors into the spirit of the holiday, with its fairground rides and Christmas markets.

New York follows in second place, with over 255,000 Instagram hashtags. Whether you’re admiring the beautiful snowy Central Park or the famously dazzling lights of the Rockefeller Centre, New York City will keep your phone busy with its countless Instagram-worthy sights.

Paris rounds out the top three with over 73,000 Instagram hashtags. Many shops go all out decorating their buildings and display windows with large ornaments and dazzling lights, with Printemps and Galeries Lafayette particularly renowned for their decor. From Christmas markets to ice skating, there is plenty of magic to soak up in the city of love.

The world’s top 10 most picturesque destinations at Christmas

Austin, Texas is the most festive city in the US, with over 1,200 searches per 10,000 people for Christmas-related terms

Austin, Texas, is declared the most festive city in the US, with over 1,200 searches in November and December per 10,000 people for festive terms such as ‘christmas lights’ and ‘christmas cookies’. Packed with over two million Christmas lights, the Zilker Park’s Trail of Lights display attracts visitors from all around. You can also take a turn into the Peppermint Parkway, a mile-long drive-thru of holiday displays, lights, and dancing characters.

Las Vegas, Nevada, follows in second place with 961 searches per 10,000 people. The entertainment capital of the world offers visitors the iconic display of the dancing Bellagio Fountain, which during the holiday season, performs classic Christmas songs such as Santa Baby and Sleigh Ride. To fill your trip with even more holiday excitement, a stroll through the Linq Promenade Winter PARQ will gift visitors with live entertainment, Christmas decorations, and festive cheer.

Denver, Washington, rounds out the top three, with 959 searches per 10,000 people. Visitors can follow the trees lining the pathway of the Cherry Creek North Winter Wanderland, draped and lit up with hundreds of Christmas lights. For more Christmas light displays, you should also head to Denver Zoo, Denver Botanic Gardens and the Elitch Gardens.

The top 10 US cities with the most festive spirit

Sheryl Drane, Regional Destination Manager for the Middle East and Indian Ocean at Travelbag comments:

“There are many US cities which are notorious for being the ideal Christmas destination due to their snow-covered landscapes, cozy log cabins and festive displays. However, some of the most picturesque destinations on Instagram at Christmas find themselves on the other side of the world with warmer climates. So why not experience Christmas in a new light?

“Dubai, for example, experiences 77°F temperatures in December but ranks as the fourth most picturesque festive destination with over 60,000 Instagram posts tagged #ChristmasinDubai. Between the impressive Christmas tree lights and renowned New Year fireworks, this destination will treat holiday-makers to a unique festive experience.

“Whether you choose a winter wonderland or a sun-soaked holiday, you will be sure to find the perfect destination to enjoy the festivities.”

Travelbag can arrange easy and hassle-free holidays for anyone wanting to experience some festive magic this holiday season.