Magical spots to see Santa at Christmas

It may still be a tad too early to put up your Christmas tree and deck out the halls of your house, but it certainly isn't too early to start planning a magical trip to visit Santa this festive season. The big man in red has several grottos around the world in which he spends the lead-up to Christmas. So, if you fancy a trip to visit him for yourself and receive a touch of extra festive cheer, here are some of the best places in the world to do so. 

Finland, Lapland

Known as the birthplace of Santa, Finland is the ultimate destination to visit Mr Claus during Christmas. Lapland is an enchanting winter wonderland that has an array of fun activities for both adults and kids. Once you’ve visited Santa in his grotto, you can ski, sleigh on the slow, or take a unique reindeer ride. One of the most famous places to visit Santa in Finland is Rovaniemi, a truly mystical place to say hi to Santa and feel the magic of Christmas. 

New York City, United States

One of the best times of year to visit New York City is during the Christmas season when the city is decked out in fairy lights and festive cheer can be felt on every corner. Macy’s Herald Square is home to one of the biggest grottos in the city and is one of the best places to pay a visit to Santa. The famous department store doesn’t hold back at Christmas and goes all out to celebrate being home to Santa. It is advised to reserve a spot beforehand, as it can get quite busy, and be prepared to queue regardless, but it is well worth it!

Drobak, Norway

Norway is another famous festive hot spot to visit Santa over the Christmas holidays. Drobak is home to Tregaarden’s Christmas House, which is a quaint and charming little establishment that is decked out with the most spectacular Christmas decorations that are available to purchase. Santa’s Post Office in town has its very own stamp, so your little ones can send their Christmas wishes to Santa in style! 

Florida, United States

It may be warmer than most places during this time of year, but Disney World in Orlando, Florida, really gets into the holiday spirit by transforming the park into a snow-filled wonderland. In the lead-up to Christmas, the park is filled with several Christmas trees and sparking lights for a taste of the season. The castle glistens with icy lights and they have season-theme events, such as the Very Merry Christmas Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Parade. To top it all off, there is continuous snowfall across Main Street for some extra Christmas magic. 

London, UK

There is something special about visiting London over the Christmas season. If it is your first time in the city, then you are in for a real treat, as the season's magic can be felt in the air. London takes Christmas very seriously by turning the biggest park in the city into a festive utopia. Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park becomes an incredible festive fairyland filled with fairground rides, stalls for food and drink, and a massive ice rink. Amongst all of that is Santa’s grotto, where little ones can pay a visit to the big man and tell him all of their Christmas wishes.