Could it be a Caribbean Christmas for you?

Christmas Christmas Markets Canary Islands

Magical Christmas holidays in warm or wintry destinations

Fancy some sunshine and sand or wintry wonders? Find out about the amazing destinations we can take you to at Christmas time

4 min 09 Oct 2023

Editorial Team

Author

A Christmas cruise could be the perfect chance to combine your celebrations with a sun-kissed break, or you might prefer to go somewhere wintry. Read on to find out about all the amazing places we can take you to. And if you’re wondering why a cruise is the ultimate way to spend the festive period, be sure to check out our article that introduces Christmas cruise holidays.

Unwrap an amazing Christmas in Spain and Portugal

With its fascinating cities, stunning coastlines, mild weather and heart-warming culture, Spain is a great place to enjoy a break over the Christmas period. And on a P&O Cruises holiday, you’ll get to explore a host of destinations and still enjoy all your favourite Christmas food and traditions on board. One day you might stroll down La Rambla or gaze up at Gaudí’s Sagrada Família in Barcelona, and another you could catch a flamenco show in Cádiz and next, explore the atmospheric alleyways of Lisbon while devouring one of the city’s famous custard tarts. However active or laid-back you want your Christmas break to be, you can find your perfect holiday rhythm in Spain and Portugal.

View festive cruises to Spain and Portugal here.

Christmas on La Rambla, Barcelona

Enjoy an enchanting Christmas in Norway

Sail to Norway and you can explore an awe-inspiring region at the most magical time of year. As you cruise between pretty, medieval towns draped in Christmas decorations, you’ll have a front-row seat for some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet. Snow-capped mountains that touch the sky, thundering waterfalls, tiny settlements perched on lofty outcrops – there’s a new sight to behold at almost every turn. You can explore these lands of natural wonder in so many ways, from energetic hikes and bike rides to relaxing scenic drives. And, following each day’s adventures, you’ll return to the cosiness of your ship to enjoy all the dining, entertainment and relaxation on board.

View festive cruises to Norway here.

A traditional wintry Christmas in Norway

Christmas in the Canary Islands

Can’t decide if you’d rather spend Christmas in Portugal or enjoy a Canary Islands Christmas holiday? Why not do both and enjoy all the traditions from home but under sunny skies? We offer fly-cruises and holidays sailing from Southampton that give you the chance to explore some of the best-loved destinations in this colourful region. You could take long walks on Tenerife’s sandy beaches or discover natural wonders such as Lanzarote’s Fire Mountains. Back on board, you’ll have the pick of a huge range of relaxation and entertainment with plenty of Christmas fun and non-festive options if you prefer.

View festive cruises to the Canary Islands here.

Christmas market in Puerto de Santiago, Tenerife

Fly away for Christmas in the Caribbean

Why not swap the cold and grey of home for the warm weather, blue skies and vibrant islands of the Caribbean in December? You can maximise every moment of sunshine when you fly to this region and meet your ship in paradise. As well as dreamy white-sand beaches, each destination offers unique adventures and quirky culture. You might find yourself kayaking in turquoise waters among tropical fish, exploring the charming historic port of Nelson’s Dockyard on Antigua, or soaking up Barbados’ lively nightlife under a balmy sky. And when you’re not immersing yourself in island life you can spend chilled-out sea days sunbathing or enjoying all the Caribbean-themed entertainment on board Arvia or Britannia.

View festive cruises to the Caribbean here.

Enjoy a sun-soaked Christmas in the Caribbean

Get into the festive spirit in Northern Europe and Scandinavia

Sparkling fairy lights, traditional music, the bustle of people shopping for gifts and, of course, the smell of roasting chestnuts and mulled wine. The Christmas markets in Northern Europe and Scandinavia are just so atmospheric and we offer special cruises that give you the chance to experience some of the very best ones. Of course, there are plenty of other adventures to enjoy in cities such as Copenhagen and Oslo, and after each exciting day’s sightseeing you can return to a warm welcome on board. Perhaps you’ll revitalise with a cup of rich hot chocolate from the bar?

View festive cruises to Northern Europe and Scandinvia here.