Escape into a winter wonderland, discover 15 of the world’s most magical hotels for Christmas and winter travel, with photos, festive highlights, activities, booking links and practical tips for planning the perfect seasonal stay.
Winter travel content performs well when it’s practical, inspirational, and linkable, so below you’ll find a curated list of hotels across Europe and North America (and Lapland!) that deliver cosy rooms, snowy scenery, festive programming, and unforgettable seasonal experiences. Each hotel entry includes what makes it special at Christmas, top activities nearby, and a direct source so you can check availability and photos.
Quick planning tips (before you book)
- Book early. Festive packages and special suites sell out months in advance, especially for Christmas week and New Year’s Eve.
- Check what’s included. Some properties include special meals, events, or transfers in holiday packages (use the hotel’s “festive” or “holiday” pages).
- Dress for the climate. Arctic hotels require thermal layers; alpine properties are perfect for après-ski outfits and boots.
- Transportation & transfers. Remote winter hotels often provide shuttle service or arrange private transfers, confirm before you arrive.
1. Kulm Hotel St. Moritz — St. Moritz, Switzerland
- Why it stands out: Founded in 1856, this 5-star historic hotel helped pioneer Alpine winter tourism. Its interiors combine 19th-century glamour (marble pillars, chandeliers, velvet, heritage decor) with modern luxury.
- What to expect in winter: Snowy Alpine scenery, proximity to the slopes or mountain trails, and a refined hotel atmosphere, ideal for a classy, snowy Christmas getaway.
- Best for: Travelers who want elegance + mountains + cozy winter charm.
2. Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel — Paris, France
- Why it stands out: This historic, elegant hotel in Paris transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season, with luxurious rooms, festive décor, and refined Parisian glamour.
- Holiday atmosphere + city vibe: Perfect for travelers who prefer a chic city Christmas, strolling through Parisian streets, enjoying gourmet dinners, lights, culture and comfort.
- Best for: City-lovers, romantics, or anyone wanting a cultured, glamorous Christmas in a major European capital.
3. Hotel Sacher Vienna — Vienna, Austria
- Why it stands out: Founded in 1876, this historic 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Vienna. It offers classic European elegance, perfect for a traditional, cozy European Christmas.
- Christmas + culture + history: Its location lets guests easily explore Vienna’s famous holiday markets, architecture and festive atmosphere, combining city charm with luxury.
- Best for: Travelers who want a winter city escape with history, comfort and holiday spirit.
4. Badrutt’s Palace Hotel — St. Moritz, Switzerland
- Why it stands out: An iconic Alpine hotel where classic winter-chalet glamour meets luxury service. The hotel offers a legendary winter-resort ambience: snow, mountains, comfort and elegance.
- Winter + comfort vibe: Ideal for those who want a story-book-style Christmas, fireplaces, cozy interiors, snowy slopes, spa and refined hospitality.
- Best for: Anyone dreaming of a fairy-tale winter holiday: ski, snow and luxury.
5. Villa d’Este — Lake Como, Italy
- Why it stands out: This historic palace-hotel, originally built centuries ago, recently reopened during winters, transforming itself into an elegant “Christmas spectacle” with luxurious interiors, lakeside views and festive decorations.
- Romantic & refined winter flair: Imagine lake views, gentle winter air, opulent rooms, a more subtle, elegant take on a chilly holiday escape (not about ski slopes, but charm, history and relaxation).
- Best for: Travelers seeking a romantic, calm and refined winter getaway, perfect for couples or those who prefer romance & elegance to snow sports.
6. The Chedi Andermatt — Andermatt, Switzerland
- Why it stands out: This hotel offers a unique “winter village” experience: think lantern-lit courtyards, cozy chalets, fire pits, barrel saunas, hot tubs under snowfall, and overall a mix of rustic and luxurious vibes.
- Festive + wellness + winter outdoors: Guests can enjoy a spa, mountain air, snow-filled landscape, cozy lounges, and even quirky winter rituals (in the past, there have been llama walks, cheese towers, hot tubs under snow, a joyful mix of luxury and fun).
- Best for: Those who want a relaxed, slightly bohemian but luxurious winter break, a good pick for travellers who enjoy spa + nature + a cozy mountain vibe.
7. Fairmont Chateau Whistler — Whistler, Canada
- Why it stands out: A classic alpine-style resort at the base of a major ski area: combines elegant hotel architecture, cozy interiors and easy access to world-class slopes, ideal for a snowy holiday getaway.
- Winter adventure + resort comfort: Skiing, snowboarding, possible winter activities, plus relaxing spa & indoor amenities make it a balanced option for active travellers who also want comfort.
- Best for: Skier / snowboarder travellers or families who want mountain fun + cozy lodging
8. Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras — Slovakian Tatras
- Why it stands out: Although not always in the spotlight, Kempinski mountain resorts are known for their elegant Alpine-style accommodation + refined service + winter-sport-friendly access, a solid choice for a quieter, sophisticated winter escape.
- Winter in the mountains + relaxation: Great for travellers seeking a mix of snow, calmness, spa or wellness amenities, and comfortable shelter from cold.
- Best for: Those who want alpine winter charm without the crowds of mega-resorts, a more understated luxury option.
9. Hovey Manor — North Hatley, Quebec, Canada
- Why it stands out: A charming 5-star manor-style hotel set beside Lake Massawippi, perfect for a peaceful, cozy winter retreat away from the hustle of major resort towns.
- Winter tranquility + comfort: Imagine lakeside views, snowy landscapes, fireplaces, cozy rooms, a very different kind of winter holiday, more secluded and intimate.
- Best for: Travellers who prefer calm, nature, and winter serenity over ski-resort bustle.
10. Fairmont Banff Springs — Banff, Canada
- Why it stands out: Known as “the Castle in the Rockies,” this iconic hotel blends majestic mountain scenery with heritage-style luxury and rich hotel amenities, perfect for a fairy-tale winter getaway.
- Winter & festive magic: During winter and holiday season the hotel runs a special “Christmas at the Castle” program: festive dining, events, ice-skating on a rink, sleigh rides, snow-shoe tours, cozy fireplaces and holiday décor.
- Ideal for: Families, couples or friends wanting snowy mountains, outdoor adventure (skiing, snowshoeing, skating) + the comforts of a luxury “castle” hotel.
11. The Plaza Hotel — New York, USA
- Why it stands out: The Plaza is one of New York’s most iconic hotels, steeped in history, luxury, and Gilded-Age grandeur. Its elegant architecture, legendary suites, and world-class amenities make it a classic choice for a holiday stay in the city.
- Holiday ambiance & festive offerings:
- Every holiday season, The Plaza transforms into a festive wonderland: the lobby is adorned with a grand Christmas tree, garlands, lights and seasonal floral arrangements.
- Guests (and sometimes even visitors) can enjoy special holiday events: a tree-lighting ceremony, a festive afternoon tea in the classic Palm Court, live seasonal performances in the lobby, and a holiday-themed boutique for gifts and souvenirs.
- Ideal for: Travelers seeking a classic city-Christmas with glamour and comfort; couples or families who want holiday-market strolls, Fifth-Avenue lights, Central Park walks and a festive hotel base; people who enjoy luxury stays, beautiful interiors and holiday rituals like afternoon tea, holiday shopping, or festive cocktails.
12. The Peninsula Paris — Paris, France
- Why it stands out: A historic “palace” hotel in a beautifully restored building, offering ultra-luxury accommodations in the heart of Paris, combining heritage charm, modern comfort and polished elegance.
- Holiday ambiance & festive offerings: During Christmas season, the hotel runs special holiday programming, festive brunches for families, holiday menus, luxurious décor with a big Christmas tree and special treats at the lobby.
- Ideal for: Travelers who want a refined, urban holiday: explore Paris’ lights and culture by day, relax in sumptuous rooms by night, perfect for city-holiday lovers, couples, or friends looking for glamour + convenience.
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