There are just two months left for Christmas. How’s the gift and food shopping going? Haven’t you started yet? Well, we can understand. Most of the people consider Christmas shopping more as an ordeal than a fun chore. And it’s quite natural. After all, how can battling the crowds in the city center be fun? So why don’t you adopt an entirely different approach this year? Why don’t you take the Christmas shopping as an excuse for a short getaway? Isn’t that a great idea? Here are top ten best Christmas shopping destinations from our perspective!
- Paris:
Paris had to top our list of ten most hip Christmas shopping destinations. It has been on the dream list of every shopper. There is chock full of department stores and arcades in Lafayette Maison and Palais Royal that will give you ample gifting ideas. The Galeries Lafayette is a high-class French department store that houses everything. It also hosts popular weekly fashion shows for visitors during Christmas. It also houses brand shops, cafes, restaurants and prestigious labels. And for fashion, you’ve got Milan. And for food shopping, you can head to Hediard and Fauchon. No wonder Paris is one the best cities in the whole world for shopping!
- New York:
New York is a shopper’s paradise. You name it and get it in New York! Renowned for the depth and breadth of shops, you are sure to be overwhelmed by what the city offers. Clothing is always of excellent value. Besides, you can also buy unusual gifts for your friends and relatives. Wade through the vintage shops to buy home ware and antiques. And if you are thinking of making gifts for your closed ones, then there are dedicated stationary stores and haberdashery for your assistance. Besides, there are huge departmental stores like Sak’s Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s. And of course, the leading fashion house Chanel. If you want to buy toys for the little ones in your family, then you can head to Toys R Us and FAO Schwarz. And when you are not shopping, get into the festive mood by taking part in the Christmas parades and strolling through the Rockefeller Center.
- Stockholm:
Stockholm, the Swedish capital, overflows with style. Shopping in Stockholm is all about class and design. The central shopping region of Stockholm is located near the main railway station around Sergels Torg. You will find big departmental stores here like NK, PUN, Ahlens City and some of the outlets of H&M. There are also hundreds of markets to explore around the city center. In the south of Stockholm, you’ll find the Sodermalm district that’s full of designer boutiques. There are plenty of well-known fashion brands and stores selling home wares and other home decoration stuff. In the late November and early December, Gamla Stan, the old heart of the city hosts Christmas markets with traditional Swedish decorations and gifts. And if you are looking for some entertainment, then head to Kungstradgarden for ice-skating.
- London:
London needs no introduction. It is truly a haven for shoppers. The huuuggee areas to shop and explore will help you make the most of your visit. The West End of London has all the famous names, home wares, departmental stores and other designer shops. From Zara to Chanel, you’ll find everything here, including Brown and Heals, Harvey Nichols, and Harrods. The Convent Garden has little craft stalls and shops for purchasing little goodies for your Christmas tree. Or head to Shepherd’s Bush or Stratford to check out indoor shopping centers packed with well-known brands. The streets of London are also worth exploring. You will find unusual stores and warehouses here. And please, do not forget to check out the Christmas lights on the Regent Street.
- Bath:
The Bath is the quintessential Christmas shopping destinations in the United Kingdom. Even the most discerning shopper will enjoy shopping in this historic city. The George Street, New Bond Street, and Milsom Street are the best streets of Bath. Jolly’s, located on the Milson Street is great for beauty products, accessories and lingerie while Rossiter is excellent for luggage, furniture, and homewares. Even George Street has an excellent collection of original and quirky home wares, and fashion accessories for men and women. If you want to purchase Children’s gift, then you can visit the Walcot Street that has House of Bears. Nearby, you will also find a delightful bookshop.
- Boston:
The Bostonians bundle up in the cozy sweaters and jackets and experience the joys of Christmas shopping in the city. The stores and the collection will appeal even to the toughest of customers. You will find everything you need for Christmas while strolling on the streets of Boston. The famous shopping destinations of Boston transform into winter wonderlands here. You won’t just make the purchases, but will also love the extensive shop displays. Downtown Crossing in Boston is an area that goes through significant changes during every Christmas. The parking lots turn into a multi-use building that ultimately creates more shopping area. And if you’re a bargain hunter then Wrentham Village Premium Outlet must be your next destination.
- Dubai:
Shopaholics love Dubai! Can you guess why? No, it’s not just because of huge brands here. It is mainly about duty-free shopping. There are scores of glitzy shopping malls that practically houses everything. The shops sell fascinating tree decorations, crafts, and sumptuous foods. Make sure you check out Gold souk here. And if you want to purchase bangles, beads, and baubles, then Deira is the place for you. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes while shopping in Dubai.
- Toronto:
Toronto is an all-weather shopper’s paradise. It has an 11-kilometer network of an underground walkway connecting more than a thousand cinemas, shops, and restaurants. So you’re sure to find everything that you need here. The shopping districts here include the Eaton Center, Harbourfront Center, Kensington Market and The Bloor-Yorkville. There is also a plethora of big brand’s showrooms here. And the street shopping is also one of its kind in Toronto.
- Berlin:
Germany is one of the trendiest countries in Europe and Berlin the most fashionable city. Kurfürstendamm hosts international chain outlets and luxury designer pop-up stores. And if you are looking for trendy boutiques and labels, then Mitte will satisfy you. Visit The Schönhauser Allee Arcaden in Berlin to check out some excellent fashion names like Espirit, H&M, Bonita, Accessorize and many more. Besides the chic style, you must also check out Christmas market here. Berlin hosts some of the best Christmas markets. We would recommend you to stay in Melia Hotel that is located in the heart of Berlin. You will find all the shopping and cultural highlights within walking distance.
- Rome:
Rome is home to several cultural delights. It’s the ideal place if you’re looking for a mix of modern and traditional shopping experiences. The mix of modern and traditional department stores means that you can discover everything that the city offers. Our personal favorite stores include Replay, Barbara Spinelli, and Borsalino. Besides, the Christmas markets of Rome offer beautiful tree decorations, crafts, and fascinating foods. Note- Rome is one of the most expensive European destinations. But the products purchased here will be worth every penny.
Where are you planning to head this Christmas for shopping? Share your most favorite Christmas shopping destinations, advice and tips in the comment section below!
