Luxury Christmas hotels make the holiday season magical with their grandeur and celebrations. These properties blend age-old traditions with modern comforts. Guests marvel at towering Christmas trees and savor exceptional seasonal cuisine while participating in festive activities that become cherished memories.
The Plaza welcomes guests with its legendary holiday afternoon tea in New York. The snow-covered Fairmont Château Lake Louise creates a winter paradise in the Canadian Rockies. Each hotel delivers exceptional Christmas celebrations through champagne receptions and designer-decorated lobbies. Michelin-starred holiday menus and thoughtfully planned seasonal activities highlight each property’s character and heritage. These ten extraordinary destinations bring luxury and holiday magic together perfectly.
The Plaza, New York City
The Plaza, located at Central Park South, reigns as New York City’s quintessential luxury Christmas hotel. This iconic landmark becomes a magnificent holiday wonderland each year from late November through early January.
The Plaza’s Festive Decorations
A spectacular Christmas tree stands as the hotel’s centerpiece. Twinkling lights and elegant ornaments adorn this masterpiece that creates magic in the grand lobby. Guests can view this iconic holiday symbol before 10 a.m. or after 10 p.m. The “Suitest Season of All” package lifts the holiday spirit with tailored in-room decorations. Each suite transforms into a private holiday retreat with a 7-foot tall Balsam Hill tree and festive floral arrangements.
Holiday Afternoon Tea at The Palm Court
The Palm Court has managed to keep its status as Manhattan’s most sophisticated destination for holiday afternoon tea throughout its 115-year history. The seasonal experience has:
- A rich selection of 25 Palais des Thés varieties
- Traditional tea sandwiches and fine pastries
- Special holiday-themed treats and decorations
- Three daily seatings from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Palm Court’s refined atmosphere and festive surroundings create the perfect setting for guests who dress elegantly to honor this cherished tradition.
The Plaza’s Christmas Day Buffet
The Palm Court welcomes guests to an unmatched Christmas Day celebration with multiple seatings from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Executive Chef Muhannad Al Ateem creates a lavish holiday buffet at $225 for adults and $120 for children under 12. Guests can enjoy an intimate evening with a special prix fixe menu at The Palm Court from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Champagne Bar adds to the festivities with holiday specials and premium bubbles paired with caviar service.
Guests can celebrate Christmas Day privately in their elegant rooms. The Plaza’s in-room dining service delivers holiday specials from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Arizona
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess sits beautifully in the Sonoran Desert. This luxury resort revolutionizes the Southwest’s Christmas celebrations. The desert setting creates a striking contrast to traditional snowy holiday spots.
Christmas at the Princess Festival
This signature holiday celebration transforms 65 magnificent acres into a magical wonderland. 10 million lights brighten the desert night with spectacular brilliance. The festival blends Arizona’s warm hospitality with holiday enchantment and has evolved into a cherished tradition that locals and visitors celebrate together.
Festive Activities and Attractions
The Princess creates a magical winter wonderland that delights visitors with several amazing attractions:
- A stunning ice skating rink spans 6,000 square feet beneath the starlit sky
- Visitors can ride the country’s largest traveling Ferris wheel that towers 120 feet high
- Two special Santa experiences await along with six charming Christmas characters
- The Village features S’moresland where guests enjoy fireside treats
- Starlights Electric Symphony dazzles with its spectacular light show
The Desert Ice Skating Rink at the resort gives guests a unique experience. Skaters glide across real ice while desert views and sparkling lights surround them. The celebration centers around the Enchanted Plaza where a magnificent four-story Christmas tree shimmers with two miles of brilliant lights.
Holiday Dining Options
The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess creates a magical dining experience during the holiday season. Each restaurant’s festive menu showcases unique culinary delights:
| Restaurant | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Bourbon Steak | Butter-poached steaks and holiday specialties |
| La Hacienda | Top-rated Mexican cuisine with seasonal touches |
| Toro Scottsdale | Pan-Latin holiday fusion |
| Ironwood American Kitchen | Farm-to-table festive fare |
Guests can enjoy casual dining at seasonal pop-up venues throughout the resort. Kringle’s Kup serves festive beverages, while Mrs. Claus’ Cookies delights with sweet treats, and The Lodge provides quick-service options. The signature restaurants fill up quickly during holidays, so guests should book their tables early.
The resort’s VIP dining spaces feature cozy fire pits and private igloos that create perfect settings for family celebrations. Guests can sip seasonal cocktails and savor special holiday dishes in these intimate spaces. Families with children under three will appreciate the complimentary access to festival activities, which adds value to their luxury holiday experience.
Claridge’s, London
Claridge’s British tradition and heritage make it London’s finest Christmas hotel. This luxury landmark stands proudly in the heart of Mayfair, where timeless elegance meets festive sophistication.
Claridge’s Famous Designer Christmas Tree
London’s festive season officially begins with the showing of Claridge’s Christmas tree that features the world’s most celebrated designers. Notable creations include:
- Louis Vuitton’s 2023 masterpiece featuring 15 chrome-plated trunks
- Christian Louboutin’s frosted forest with gingerbread stilettos
- Dolce & Gabbana’s tree adorned with 450 hand-blown Italian glass baubles
Paul Smith’s vision will transform the 2024 installation into a traditional 19-foot tree decorated with 100 bespoke birdhouses that continues the hotel’s legacy of innovative holiday designs.
Festive Afternoon Tea
Claridge’s festive afternoon tea reshapes The Foyer into a magical Christmas setting where live carol singers enchant guests. This unique experience has:
| Service | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Tea | 2:45 PM – 5:30 PM | £95 per person |
| Festive Selection | Christmas pudding, seasonal pastries | Includes champagne |
Our executive chefs create delightful seasonal treats. Guests savor Severn & Wye smoked salmon sandwiches and house-made Christmas pudding with brandy sauce. Fresh-baked scones arrive at the table with Cornish clotted cream.
Christmas Eve Carriage Rides
Guests take a magical horse-drawn carriage ride through the lit streets of Mayfair on Christmas Eve. The traditional experience serves hot chocolate and marshmallows during the ride while carol singers fill the lobby with festive songs. The hotel adds thoughtful touches with customized stockings hung on Christmas Eve and mince pies left for Santa that create an atmosphere of magical anticipation.
A three-night Christmas package at the hotel offers a welcome bottle of champagne, a personal Christmas tree in-room and daily English breakfast. Children can enjoy special entertainment by Sharkey and George on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day that adds wonder to the celebration.
Ashford Castle, Ireland
Ashford Castle stands proudly on a stunning 350-acre estate. The 800-year-old fortress becomes Ireland’s most magical Christmas destination. This enchanting retreat perfectly blends medieval charm with modern luxury.
Medieval Christmas Experience
Rich oak paneling, crackling fires, and deep scarlet draperies create an elegant atmosphere in the Guinness family’s former home. The castle’s Oak Hall stands proudly with its magnificent 20-foot Christmas tree that grows right on the estate. Guests step into this aristocratic holiday setting and receive a warm welcome with traditional mulled wine and freshly baked mince pies.
Festive Banquets and Activities
The castle’s celebration has an array of sophisticated entertainment and activities:
- Black-tie gala dinner on Christmas Eve with cocktail reception
- Traditional Irish music performances and seasonal songs
- Exclusive wine tasting sessions in the historic cellar
- Festive movie screenings in the castle cinema
- Special appearances by Santa Claus bearing gifts
The celebration’s crown jewel is the unique Pudding Parade. Chefs in full uniform march alongside Benny the Piper and present their house-made Christmas puddings in a grand procession through the restaurant.
Christmas Day Lunch
This five-course Christmas Day lunch captures the essence of elegant holiday dining with authentic Irish charm:
| Course | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Starter | Beetroot-cured organic salmon with blinis |
| Soup | Spiced pumpkin and chestnut |
| Palate cleanser | Mulled wine sorbet |
| Main Course | Traditional roast turkey and ham with goose-fat potatoes |
| Dessert | House-made Christmas pudding |
The festivities go beyond the dining room. Guests start their Christmas morning with a delightful cruise on Lough Corrib. They sip hot whiskeys and listen to traditional music while admiring Ireland’s breathtaking countryside. The afternoon brings exciting options like falconry, archery, and guided walks around the estate. This mix creates perfect moments of fun and relaxation.
The castle’s staff shows their dedication to service through thoughtful pre-arrival conversations. They work to blend each guest’s priorities into their stay. This attention helps visitors feel the true warmth of Irish hospitality at this luxury Christmas hotel.
Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris
The Four Seasons Hotel George V stands proudly in Paris’s prestigious Golden Triangle. This magnificent property raises holiday luxury to an art form through the creative vision of renowned Artistic Director Jeff Leatham.
Parisian Winter Wonderland Decor
Leatham’s artistic vision revolutionizes the hotel’s festive season. Spectacular installations feature black reindeer that shimmer with over 1,300 mirrors and twinkling lights. The Marble Courtyard transforms into a magical realm where custom-designed golden Christmas trees float above ornament pools. This enchanting display captures the perfect blend of Parisian elegance and holiday warmth.
Michelin-Starred Holiday Menus
The hotel’s culinary excellence shines brightly during the festive season:
| Restaurant | Stars | Holiday Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Le Cinq | ⭐⭐⭐ | Modern French cuisine by Chef Christian Le Squer |
| L’Orangerie | ⭐⭐ | Innovative plant and fish-based holiday menu |
| Le George | ⭐ | Mediterranean-inspired festive dishes |
Pastry Chef Michaël Bartocetti crafts a stunning Christmas Yule log that captures the season’s spirit. His holly leaf creation combines pear and chocolate flavors beautifully. The dessert showcases a smooth chocolate mousse with bergamot notes and features a delightful texture from crispy puffed rice and tapioca milk.
Festive Spa Treatments
Our luxury spa features exclusive holiday treatments that help you unwind and refresh:
- The L’Evasion George V Dr Burgener ritual blends a purifying scrub with a restorative massage
- Signature facials enhanced with gold and green caviar
- Haute Couture anti-aging programs with customized skincare plans
- Special festive treatments end with delightful macarons and champagne
Beautiful marble and mosaic-tiled hammams create a genuine retreat atmosphere. The modern fitness center provides stunning views of our elegant pool, making this the perfect wellness sanctuary for your holiday escape.
The Breakers Palm Beach, Florida
The Breakers Palm Beach creates holiday grandeur with a tropical twist. Palm trees sway and ocean breezes flow through this luxurious setting. The resort blends traditional festive charm with seaside sophistication.
Oceanfront Holiday Celebrations
The 140-acre oceanfront property becomes a magical holiday wonderland each year. The resort team spends eleven months planning this spectacular transformation. Guests arrive through the grand entrance where thousands of soft white lights elegantly wrap 100 majestic royal palms and Canary Island date trees along the 1,040-foot main drive. The Italian Renaissance architecture serves as a stunning backdrop that showcases 170,000 twinkle lights, 8,000 ornaments, and 12,000 feet of ribbon throughout the interior. The historic 200-foot-long lobby features two magnificent 18-foot evergreen trees and a sculptural menorah that create an awe-inspiring centerpiece.
Christmas Brunch at The Circle
The Circle celebrates Christmas Day with an elegant feast:
| Experience | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Brunch | 11 AM – 3 PM with unlimited champagne | $285 per person |
| Children’s Brunch | Ages 12 and younger | $100 per child |
A magnificent ballroom sets the perfect stage for this holiday celebration. Guests can enjoy breathtaking Atlantic views through arched windows while a harpist performs tableside. The culinary team blends beloved holiday classics with innovative dishes. This exceptional feast delights guests with refined tastes.
Holiday Tea at HMF
Henry M. Flagler’s legacy lives on through the elegant seasonal afternoon tea service at HMF. Guests can enjoy an exquisite array of treats Wednesday through Saturday from 1:30 to 3:30 PM. The $120 per person experience has:
- A curated selection of traditional and seasonal fine teas
- Gourmet tea sandwiches with truffle egg salad and Maine lobster
- Delightful specialty pastries like Key lime snowball cookies and macarons
- Fresh buttermilk scones paired with Devonshire cream and rose-petal jam
HMF creates magical holiday moments beyond its culinary delights. The Holiday Festival brings special events to life with gingerbread house decorating and fireside s’mores. These activities make lasting memories for guests of every age.
Fairmont Château Lake Louise, Canada
The Fairmont Château Lake Louise stands between soaring peaks and the frozen expanse of Lake Louise. This magnificent setting transforms into a Canadian winter wonderland that offers an enchanting alpine Christmas experience.
Winter Wonderland in the Rockies
A magnificent castle-like hotel towers against Victoria Glacier’s backdrop. 10,000 years of natural beauty creates a breathtaking stage for holiday festivities. Visitors discover a grand lobby with a soaring Christmas tree that sparkles with mountain-themed ornaments. The lake freezes into a stunning ice skating rink that people consider “the world’s most beautiful,” surrounded by an enchanting ice castle.
Christmas Eve Torchlight Dinner
A magical evening of fine dining and entertainment awaits guests this Christmas Eve:
| Experience | Details |
|---|---|
| Torchlight Parade | Expert torchbearers light up the mountain slopes at 7:00 PM |
| Festive Dinner | Multi-course gourmet meal showcasing regional specialties |
| Entertainment | Live caroling and musical performances |
| Wine Pairing | Hotel sommelier’s handpicked selection |
Festive Outdoor Activities
The hotel’s winter program has an array of memorable experiences. Guests can join guided snowshoe expeditions through pristine powder. The activities feature horse-drawn sleigh rides along the frozen lakeshore. Lake Louise’s ice skating rink provides stunning mountain views. Cozy evening campfire sessions let guests roast marshmallows under the stars.
The Mountain Adventure Program leads expert winter activities. The Ice Bar’s outdoor setting serves signature cocktails and mulled wine against a breathtaking backdrop. The hotel’s special holiday spa treatments and yoga sessions give guests a chance to unwind while overlooking the winter landscape.
The Victoria Ballroom buzzes with daily festive activities. Guests can decorate gingerbread houses and attend wine tasting sessions. The Kids Adventure Camp keeps children engaged with supervised holiday-themed activities. Parents can relax in the Lakeview Lounge’s sophisticated atmosphere.
The Fairmont Gold experience lifts the holiday stay with a private lounge. Guests get complimentary breakfast and evening canapés. A dedicated concierge helps arrange special Christmas experiences. Each morning brings new adventures as guests join a Mountain Adventure Guide. The tours cover Lake Louise’s scenic area and let visitors learn about kilometers of groomed trails while they admire snow-capped peaks.
Ritz Paris, France
The legendary Ritz Paris has represented the pinnacle of French luxury for more than a century. The iconic hotel becomes a magical Christmas destination in the festive season that perfectly captures Parisian elegance.
Luxurious Parisian Christmas
The hotel’s festive season starts with the revealing of its magical Christmas Chalet that runs from December 6 to 31, 2023. A beautiful carousel decorated in the hotel’s signature gold and blue colors stands as the centerpiece and gives free rides to children. The chalet brings together delightful seasonal offerings:
| Offering | Description |
|---|---|
| Gourmet Treats | François Perret’s exclusive pastry creations |
| Signature Drinks | Panama 70% hot chocolate, mulled wine |
| Holiday Gifts | Limited-edition notebooks, leather pouches |
| Special Events | Golden Ticket drawing for luxury stays |
Holiday Tea at Bar Vendôme
Bar Vendôme welcomes guests to a refined holiday retreat that captures true Parisian elegance. The seasonal tea service has these delightful offerings:
- White fir tree shortbread with almond-cinnamon (gluten-free)
- Signature praline-pecan crousti with vanilla custard
- Exclusive holiday pastry selection
- Premium tea varieties served in elegant settings
Bar Vendôme‘s enchanting atmosphere showcases French artistry and craftsmanship beautifully. Lavish furnishings and antique chandeliers transport guests to the romantic Belle Époque era.
Christmas Day Brunch at Salon d’Été
The Christmas Day Brunch at the elegant Salon d’Été stands out as the season’s highlight. The culinary team crafts a gourmet experience that captivates guests of all ages. Traditional holiday favorites blend seamlessly with innovative French cuisine. Guests dine beneath sparkling crystal chandeliers, surrounded by stunning artwork in an atmosphere of refined elegance.
The hotel shows its steadfast dedication to creating magical moments throughout the property. Holiday decorations make the Place Vendôme location shine brilliantly. French artistry reaches its peak in every interior space. Children can enjoy the Carrousel du Ritz Paris from Wednesday through Sunday, 3 PM to 8 PM. The carousel provides a perfect break between visits to the nearby Tuileries Christmas Market.
The hotel’s 125th anniversary brings special celebrations to life. Children over three years old get exclusive carousel access. The Christmas Chalet offers unique holiday shopping experiences. The festivities will end with the Golden Ticket drawing on January 5, 2024. One lucky guest will win an extraordinary night at the hotel and dinner at Bar Vendôme.
The Greenbrier, West Virginia
“America’s Resort,” The Greenbrier raises holiday celebrations to new heights throughout its magnificent 11,000-acre estate in the Allegheny Mountains. The resort combines Southern hospitality with timeless elegance seamlessly.
America’s Resort Christmas Traditions
This historic property becomes a magical wonderland that features more than 100 Christmas trees while fresh poinsettias line its corridors and public spaces. The resort’s holiday traditions extend back many decades. Each space receives careful decoration that creates an atmosphere guests often compare to a Hallmark movie set. Ten grand lobbies display unique themes and give visitors a chance to explore different interpretations of holiday splendor.
Holiday Activities and Workshops
The Greenbrier’s holiday calendar features exciting activities that everyone in the family will love:
- Signature Experiences
- Family Christmas Tree Decorating Contest at no extra cost
- Traditional Yule Log Ceremony
- Horse-drawn Sleigh Rides across beautiful snow-covered grounds
- Ice Skating with equipment you can rent
- Santa photo sessions exclusively for resort guests
You can join amazing holiday workshops that range from $40-$85 per person:
- Christmas Cookie Decorating
- Merry Mint Mixology (21+ only)
- Art Alive Children’s Painting
- Hot Chocolate & S’mores Making
Christmas Eve and Day Dining
Our chefs prepare memorable holiday feasts in different restaurants:
| Dining Experience | Details | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Season’s Greetings Dinner | Traditional favorites with chef specialties | $125 adults, $55 children |
| Christmas Day Buffet | International cuisine with carving stations | Has seafood display |
| Winter Wonderland Dinner | Family-style celebration | $95 adults, $55 children |
The Season’s Greetings Dinner features an impressive spread of dishes. Guests can enjoy chilled seafood displays and international cheese selections. Culinary stations serve Blue Cheese Crusted Roast Prime Rib and Greek Style Glazed Berkshire Pork Loin that go together with one another.
Families looking to celebrate intimately can stay in luxury rooms decorated with personal Christmas trees. These rooms become private holiday havens. The resort’s grounds are perfect for winter activities like Jeep excursions and falconry demonstrations. Indoor facilities feature a gaming club and entertainment venues to enjoy evening festivities.
The resort’s steadfast dedication to making magical moments shows in every detail. Guests can enjoy a champagne toast and waltz in The Casino Club. Family activities range from bingo nights to holiday scavenger hunts. Special shows and live performances throughout the season give guests new ways to celebrate and create memories at this iconic luxury Christmas hotel.
Ojai Valley Inn, California
Image Source: www.ojaivalleyinn.com
This luxury resort nestles in the peaceful Ojai Valley and captures California’s unique holiday spirit. Mediterranean architecture blends with festive charm, all bathed in endless sunshine.
Serenity Season Celebrations
Ojai Valley Inn’s annual Serenity Season reshapes the scene into a holiday retreat that blends festive spirit with local harvest traditions. Guests experience nightly activities with professional carol performances and ceremonial Menorah lighting that create a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
Special seasonal events include:
- Story time with Santa’s elves
- Holiday cookie decorating sessions with our pastry team
- Sommelier’s cheese and wine tastings
- Santa joins breakfast for keepsake photos
Christmas Eve Jingle Bell Jaunt
A cherished Christmas Eve tradition awaits guests at 8 AM with the annual Jingle Bell Jaunt. This heartwarming morning walk winds through the resort’s beautiful grounds. Guests gather at Spa Ojai with their families and furry friends to enjoy this complimentary festive stroll together. The resort blends wellness and holiday cheer perfectly, giving guests a memorable way to start their Christmas Eve celebrations.
Farm-to-Table Holiday Feasts
The resort’s culinary program brings the best of Ojai Valley’s soil and local producers to your plate through several amazing dining spots:
| Venue | Holiday Experience | Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Oak | Three-course Christmas menu | $95 adults, $25 children |
| Olivella | Four-course prix-fixe dinner | $160 adults |
| The Farmhouse | Grand Christmas Buffet | $195 adults, $65 children |
The Christmas Grand Buffet at The Farmhouse shines as the highlight of holiday dining. Guests can enjoy:
- Extensive carving station
- Premium caviar bar
- Decadent dessert selection
- Unlimited sparkling, red, or white wine
Each restaurant brings its own charm to the holiday celebrations. The Oak serves up holiday classics with a California twist, and Olivella creates winter dishes that showcase local fresh ingredients. The Farmhouse welcomes guests on Christmas Day with two convenient seating times – noon and 4 PM.
The resort takes food and wine seriously. Executive Chef Rachel Wiener and Food and Beverage Director Melissa Foskey lead special holiday workshops. These sessions pair international cheeses with premium wines and are a great way to get more food knowledge during the festive season.
Families love the Breakfast with Santa event. Adults pay $95 while kids under 12 pay $50. This magical morning features a delicious breakfast buffet where kids meet Santa and his reindeer. Everyone gets a photo to remember their luxury Christmas hotel experience.
The Somadome meditation pod at the spa helps guests find quiet moments during the busy holidays. Quick 20-minute sessions help maintain balance amid the celebrations. The resort’s restaurants, shops, and pools match any luxury destination. Yet it stays true to Ojai Valley’s natural beauty and farming roots.
Conclusion about Luxury Christmas Hotels
A stay at a luxury Christmas hotel goes beyond a simple getaway—it creates extraordinary memories. Traditional home celebrations have their charm, but these prestigious hotels blend sophistication, service, and seasonal magic to make December truly unforgettable.
These distinguished properties know how to lift every part of your holiday celebration:
- Designer Christmas trees with professional decorations
- Seasonal specialties from world-class dining venues
- Fun activities that everyone can enjoy
- Service that knows what you need before you do
- Special seasonal experiences and traditions you won’t find anywhere else
The complete experience at luxury Christmas hotels stands out in many ways:
| Experience Component | Value Added |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 500-thread count linens, premium amenities |
| Dining | Michelin-starred holiday menus, unlimited champagne |
| Activities | Exclusive access to seasonal events |
| Service | Personal butler, concierge assistance |
| Ambiance | Professional decorations worth millions |
Luxury Christmas hotel stays deliver more than just a room—they free you from holiday preparations so your family can focus on making memories. Magical moments happen naturally here, from watching snowfall through floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoying afternoon tea surrounded by spectacular decorations.
The Luxury Difference goes beyond physical amenities. Each property adds its own touch of holiday magic, from the Plaza’s legendary afternoon tea to the Fairmont’s millions of twinkling lights. Holiday spirit fills every moment with careful attention to detail—custom-crafted ornaments and personalized stockings make the experience special.
These hotels give you an elegant alternative to home celebrations, perfect for starting new traditions or taking a break from old ones. World-class service combines with exceptional cuisine and carefully planned festivities to create the perfect holiday moment for each family member.
The experience might not be the most budget-friendly way to spend the season, but its value lies in its completeness. You won’t stress about holiday preparations here. From arrival to departure, thoughtful staff manages every detail so families can enjoy their time together fully and immerse themselves in the joy and wonder of the season.
These prestigious properties showcase their finest during winter season. Their luxury Christmas celebrations go beyond typical hotel experiences. Each property weaves its distinctive personality into cherished traditions that embrace both heritage and state-of-the-art experiences. The holiday spirit thrives magnificently in these locations, from Central Park views to Canadian Rockies retreats, through exceptional service and meticulous attention to detail.
