Ever dreamt of stepping into your favourite Christmas movie and experiencing its magic first hand? From snowy villages to cityscapes, these real-life destinations bring the magic of famous holiday films to life.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Christmas movie locations, showcasing must-visit spots and the perfect travel inspiration for your Christmas movie travel list!
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We've chosen some of our favourite Christmas films to showcase you some festive inspired destinations for your next break.
Location: Los Angeles, California, USA
While it’s an unconventional Christmas movie (and one we disagree with in our house), Die Hard is set during a holiday office party at the fictional Nakatomi Plaza, filmed at the real Fox Plaza in Los Angeles.
Stay: The luxurious InterContinental Los Angeles Century City, a short drive from Fox Plaza.
Don’t Miss: A visit to Fox Plaza to relive John McClane’s epic adventure and enjoy festive lights at LA’s The Grove.
This action-packed holiday classic proves that Christmas
movie travel isn’t always about snow and Santa!
Location: New York City, USA
Kevin McCallister’s escapades showcase NYC’s holiday magic, from the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the bustling streets of Fifth Avenue- one of my personal favourite Christmas films.
Stay: The historic Plaza Hotel, where Kevin checks in (and causes chaos).
Don’t Miss: Ice skating at Rockefeller Center and a walk through Central Park, both featured in this unforgettable holiday film.
There are many themed 'Home Alone Tours' in New York including a ride in a limo with a cheese pizza! (see below)
Add this vibrant city to your Christmas movie travel list for a festive adventure like no other.
Location: Seneca Falls, New York, USA
While the fictional Bedford Falls is the film’s setting, the charming town of Seneca Falls is believed to have inspired it. The town embraces the movie’s legacy, making it a must-visit for fans.
Stay: The Gould Hotel, offering cosy accommodations with a touch of nostalgia.
Don’t Miss: The annual It’s a Wonderful Life festival and the It’s a Wonderful Life Museum, celebrating this timeless holiday classic.
Locations: Surrey and London, England
Iris’s cosy cottage and Amanda’s chic LA mansion contrast beautifully in this heart-warming film. While Rosehill Cottage was a set, its design mirrors real cottages in Surrey.
Stay: Rent a Holiday Cottage in Holmbury St. Mary area for an authentic experience.
Don’t Miss: Stroll through the quaint village of Shere or visit Covent Garden in London for its festive markets and lights.
Fans of idyllic countryside settings should add this to their Christmas movie travel list!
Location: New York City, USA
Buddy the Elf’s adventures take him through some of NYC’s most iconic landmarks, spreading holiday cheer wherever he goes.
Stay: The Lotte New York Palace, known for its stunning holiday decorations.
Don’t Miss: Snap a photo with the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, visit the Empire State Building, and sip hot cocoa while exploring Central Park.
For a festive trip, NYC tops the list of the best Christmas movie locations.
Location: Aspen, Colorado, USA
While the Griswolds’ antics mostly take place at home, the snowy mountain vibes of Aspen are the perfect real-life escape for fans of Christmas Vacation.
Stay: The upscale Hotel Jerome, nestled in the heart of Aspen.
Don’t Miss: Skiing or snowboarding on the pristine slopes, followed by après-ski drinks at Ajax Tavern.
Location: London, England
This romantic holiday favourite highlights London’s festive charm, with twinkling lights and cosy traditions.
Stay: The elegant The Connaught hotel in Mayfair.
Don’t Miss: Explore St. Luke’s Mews, where Mark famously professes his love, and go ice skating at Somerset House.
Location: Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona, USA
Experience the magic of the Polar Express with a real-life train ride on the Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express Experience.
Stay: The Bright Angel Lodge, Arizona.
Don’t Miss: Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa on this unforgettable ride to the “North Pole.”
Location: Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Illinois, USA
The chaos of holiday travel is hilariously depicted in this film, and Chicago O’Hare is one of its real-life settings.
Stay: The nearby Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport, ideal for travellers passing through.
Don’t Miss: Experience the city's holiday lights and treats before catching your next flight!
Location: Vienna, Austria
This charming film showcases Vienna’s stunning Christmas markets and royal holiday vibes.
Stay: The Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna, offering luxury accommodations fit for royalty.
Don’t Miss: Visit the Rathausplatz Christmas Market, known for its festive lights, mulled wine, and local crafts.
From the snowy cottages of The Holiday to the action-packed skyscraper of Die Hard, these 10 Christmas film locations you can visit in real life offer a range of festive experiences.
Whether you’re planning a full itinerary or dreaming of holiday travel, these spots deserve a place on your Christmas movie travel list for 2026.
Which of these best Christmas movie locations will you explore first?
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