27 Best Christmas Destinations in The World to Experience the Holiday Magic

27 Best Christmas Destinations in The World to Experience the Holiday Magic

Searching for the best Christmas Destinations in the world to fully experience all things fresh pine and mulled wine?

As the holiday season approaches, these 27 picturesque Christmas destinations transform into magical wonderlands, complete with twinkling lights and aromatic evergreens.

From the colorful streets of Europe to the snow-covered landscapes of North America, these places have mastered the art of creating unforgettable Christmas experiences.

In no particular order, here are 27 of the Best Christmas Destinations in the World.

best Christmas destinations in the world

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.

Christmas Vacation Essentials

27 Best Christmas Destinations in the World

1. Wroclaw, Poland

Wroclaw is everything cobblestone streets and colorful gingerbread house-like architecture!

This Polish city is consistently in the top 3 for best Christmas markets in the world.

I planned my trip to Eastern Europe just to see it for myself and was so awe-struck by the beauty of this seemingly Christmas-themed city! After you’ve seen all you can of the gorgeous markets, be sure to go ice skating or hop on the Christmas tram.

best Christmas destinations in the world

2. Leavenworth, Washington

Welcome to a slice of Germany in a little corner of the USA. The Bavarian-influenced town of Leavenworth is an enchanting site to see during the holiday season. Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, this is a Christmas-lovers paradise.

Peruse the twinkle-lit streets of Leavenworth and take in all the smells of chestnuts and cider. Don’t forget to visit the Nutcracker Museum.

best Christmas destinations in the world

3. Vienna, Austria

Renowned for its rich history and elegant architecture, Vienna takes on a magical feel during the holiday season.

As winter approaches, the Austrian capital becomes a symphony of lights, music, and festive cheer. The iconic Rathausplatz hosts one of the most famous Christmas markets, where the City Hall serves as a stunning backdrop for the festive scene.

best Christmas destinations in the world

4. Colmar, France

Visiting Colmar is like walking straight into a storybook. At Christmas time, the town square and lanes transform into lively hubs of activity, with wooden chalet-style stalls offering handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and local treats.

The “Quartier des Tanneurs,” or Tanner’s District, is a must-see during the holiday season.

best Christmas destinations in the world

5. Grindelwald Switzerland

The magical winter wonderland of Grindelwald comes alive during the holidays.

Hit the slopes to ski or snowboard, sip hot cocoa in a cozy lodge, and explore the Christmas markets where you can find handmade crafts and local treats.

best Christmas destinations in the world

6. New York City

NYC is undoubtedly one of the most magical places in the world at Christmas time. From the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the bustling holiday market in Bryant Park, every corner of the city feels like a classic Christmas movie.

best Christmas destinations in the world

7. Quebec, Canada

Towards the end of November, Quebec City transforms into a real-life winter wonderland. The wondrous spires of Château Frontenac, the sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, and the adventurous Place D’Youville ice rink are just a few of the endless things to do in Quebec City during the wintertime.

best Christmas destinations in the world

8. Branson, Missouri

Branson is THE Christmas spot to hit in the Midwest. If you want to completely immerse yourself in a Christmas experience, Silver Dollar City Amusement Park offers a unique family-filled holiday time to be had.

The shopping district, Branson Landing, is also decked with beautiful Christmas decorations to admire while you’re browsing shops or dining at restaurants.

best Christmas destinations in the world

9. Tallinn, Estonia


Voted time and time again as the best Christmas market in Europe, Tallinn stands as an underrated European gem that’s waiting to be discovered. This charming Estonian capital, often overlooked in favor of its more famous counterparts, has been quietly capturing hearts with its enchanting holiday spirit and old-world allure.

The town’s medieval architecture comes alive with an extra touch of wonder under the soft glow of holiday decorations.

best Christmas destinations in the world

10. Bruges Belgium

Amidst the Bruges Christmas market, the air is dancing with the irresistible smell of buttery waffles and velvety hot chocolate.

When in Bruges be sure to gaze at the dazzling Christmas tree in Markt Square. For a truly memorable experience, take a romantic canal ride and admire the lights reflecting all along the water.

best Christmas destinations in the world

11. Cologne Germany

With Cologne being one of the largest cities in Europe, treat yourself to SEVEN insanely beautiful and individually unique Christmas markets.

Be sure to check out some of the Holiday must-dos in Cologne such as the Cathedral Christmas market, Old Town, and the Chocolate Museum.

best Christmas destinations in the world

12. Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi is the official Hometown of Santa Claus, making it the perfect winter getaway. Located right at the Arctic Circle, travelers can cross the imaginary line that marks the northernmost point where the sun can be seen on the winter solstice. Of course, no trip to Rovaniemi is complete without a trip to Santa Claus Village and a view of the northern lights.

best Christmas destinations in the world

13. Tbilisi Georgia

Winter may arguably be one of the best times of the year to visit Georgia (if you can stand the cold!)

Christmas in Georgia falls later than when westerners typically celebrate with December 31 being the main event. Holiday activities get started in early December but with a full month of holidays scheduled, can last all the way to the end of January.

best Christmas destinations in the world

14. Budapest, Hungary

Whether it’s gallivanting in the Christmas market at Vörösmarty Square, unwinding in a thermal bath, or pulling out your best moves on the ice rink, Budapest is a great choice for a European winter getaway.

best Christmas destinations in the world

15. Solvang, California

Get the European winter experience without the harsh winter. Solvang is a Danish-inspired charming town in California that is full of fun Christmas activities like tree lighting, parades, and a Christmas market. Check their online calendar here so you don’t miss a thing!

best Christmas destinations in the world

16. Salzburg, Austria

With the enchanting Salzburg fortress and the Christkindlmarket in the heart of the old town, it’s no wonder why Salzburg is a fabulous winter destination to celebrate the holidays. If you can swing it, plan your trip around December 5th to experience the traditional Krampus Run.

best holiday destinations

17. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg is one of the best Christmas destinations in the world because it is literally declared “the capital of Christmas!” See one of the oldest Christmas markets boasting over 300 wooden stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, regional delicacies, and warm spiced wine.

Spot the gigantic Christmas tree in Place Kleber, admire the twinkling lights from the Strasbourg Cathedral viewpoint, and take a stroll through Le Petite France.

christmas vacations

18. London, UK

One of the world’s most enchanting cities must be seen during the holiday season! See Oxford Street completely embellished with holiday decorations and go ice skating at Somerset House. Don’t forget to visit all the Christmas markets and see a holiday show at West End Theater.

christmas vacations

19. Woodstock, Vermont

Step into a cheesy hallmark Christmas movie in Woodstock Vermont. Meander in and out of the adorable local shops and plan your trip around Wassail Weekend where the town comes to life with parades, music, and holiday festivities.

christmas vacations

20. Amsterdam, Netherlands

There’s nothing more magical than perusing along the lit-up canals of Amsterdam during Christmas time. Be sure to see the Museumplein market which is a festive village with everything from artsy crafts to yummy street food.

For artsy vibes, hit up the Winter Parade or the Royal Carré Theatre – they put on some amazing holiday shows. And don’t forget to swing by Dam Square – it’s basically the Christmas epicenter with a massive tree and a vibrant atmosphere.

christmas vacations

21. Prague, Czech Republic

Start your cozy winter adventure in Christmas markets in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.

The Prague Castle offers breathtaking views of the city draped in snow. Don’t forget to warm up with some mulled wine or hot honey liquor, they’re the perfect fix in the chilly weather.

christmas vacations

22. Nuremberg, Germany

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany’s most famous Christmas markets and for good reason.

You’ll be surrounded by cute little stalls selling crafts, toys, and seriously yummy gingerbread. Speaking of food, you must try the Nuremberg sausages.

Take a walk through the city’s charming medieval streets and capture the Nuremberg Castle on a snowy day when it looks like a picture postcard.

christmas vacations

23. Reykjavik, Iceland

Christmas in Reykjavik is the ultimate unique holiday experience! Check out the Christmas Village in Hafnarfjörður and look out for traditional Icelandic treats like kleinur.

Now, the weather might be chilly, but that’s the perfect excuse to warm up in one of Reykjavik’s geothermal pools!

If you happen to be there for New Year’s Eve, bonfire parties are a local tradition and a great way to welcome the upcoming year.

christmas vacations

24. Copenhagan, Denmark

If you’re hanging out in Denmark during Christmas time, you’re in for a hygge-filled treat!

Dive into the world of Danish Christmas markets – Tivoli Gardens is a total must, with its festive lights, rides, and stalls.

Take a stroll down Strøget, the city’s main shopping street which turns into a twinkling wonderland for the holidays.

For something truly Instagram-worthy, check out the giant Christmas tree at the City Hall Square.

best christmas destinations in the world

25. Edinburgh, Scotland

Celebrate the holidays in true Scottish style.

Capture the scenery along the Royal Mile, decked out with sparkling lights and performers. Also, see the Christmas markets in Princes Street Gardens and the Street of Light show on George Street.

Edinburgh Castle is especially worth a visit during this time of year and hosts a variety of events and concerts.

Of course, be sure to get cozy in a traditional pub to enjoy a warm pour of Scotch.

best christmas destinations in the world

26. Bethlehem, Palestine

Bethlehem, located in the West Bank of Palestine, is a place of immense significance for Christians as it’s believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. During Christmas, Bethlehem becomes a focal point for religious pilgrimage and celebration.

If you’re planning your holiday in Bethlehem, start by visiting the Church of the Nativity and attending the Midnight Mass. Stroll through Manger Square to admire all the decorations.

best christmas destinations in the world

27. Oxford, England

I consider Oxford to be one of the best Christmas destinations in the world because it already looks like a magical fairytale city any time of the year, but especially at Christmas. The historic city center hosts a charming Christmas market complete with carolers and mulled wine.

The Bodleian Library and much of the University of Oxford’s campus are decorated beautifully for the season. Complete your cozy evening in one of Oxford’s traditional pubs for hearty British fare and a fresh pint.

best christmas destinations in the world

Best Christmas Destinations in the World

From the enchanting Christmas markets of Europe to the snowy wonderland of Lapland, and the spiritual significance of Bethlehem, there are so many epic and unique best Christmas destinations in the world to suit every traveler’s dreams.

This post was all about best Christmas destinations in the world.

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Places that have that Bridgerton ~vibe~ typically can be found in the UK and have beautiful landscapes and cobblestone roads.

1. Bath, Somerset, UK

The entire city of Bath is a World Heritage Site as it is known for its’ historic Roman-built baths. Do you recognize the striking golden architecture? Bath is one of the main filming locations for the show.

Places that look like Bridgerton
@cherryblossombats

2. Oxford, England

Poet Matthew Arnold once deemed this stunning city “The City of Dreaming Spires.”

With beautiful gardens, medieval architecture, and historic colleges, Oxford truly looks like a city from a fairytale… Or Bridgerton!

Interested in learning more about Oxford? Check out my blog post about this fairytale city here.

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3. York, UK

York is another city that was used as a filming location for Bridgerton. This historic walled city is famed for its cathedrals and stained glass details.

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4. Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, UK

Chipping Campden is a small village located in the Cotswold district of Gloucestershire. This charming market town was known as a popular wool trading hub back in the middle-ages. Isn’t it dreamy?

Places that look like Bridgerton
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5. Shaftesbury, Dorset, UK

Shaftesbury is a village located in Dorset, England. Famous for “Gold Hill” (pictured below) which was featured in an iconic 1973 bread commercial, Shaftesbury is visited by tourists all over the world for a glimpse of this picturesque cobblestone street.

Places that look like Bridgerton
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6. Cambridge, UK

Cambridge revolves around the prestigious university dating back to 1209, University of Cambridge. The city is strikingly beautiful with it’s spires and gothic architecture.

Places that look like Bridgerton
@imnotaleo
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7. London, UK

Bridgerton wouldn’t be the same without the spicy secrets that stir in the iconic city of London. With so many stunning streets and dreamy facades, it’s no wonder that it was also a main filming location for the show.

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8. Castle Combe, Wiltshire, UK

Castle Combe is a small village with a population less than four hundred! This is another charming town tucked away in the Cotswold area.

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9. Ambleside, Cumbria, UK

Ambleside is a town in Cumbria and sits on England’s largest lake, Windermere.

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10. Kent, UK

Kent is a county located in South East England. With its many abbeys, churches, and castles throughout its countryside, Kent has total Bridgerton vibes!

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25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film

25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film

Attention fellow travelers and cinephiles! If you’ve ever found yourself lost in the mesmerizing, offbeat worlds of Wes Anderson’s films, you’re not alone.

His distinct style, a blend of whimsy and precision, has a way of capturing our hearts and imaginations. But what if I told you that there are actual places out there, beyond the silver screen, that could be straight out of a Wes Anderson movie?

Grab your pastel-colored turtle neck and a bottle of bubbly and let’s dive into these 25 Real-life places that totally belong in a Wes Anderson movie.

25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.

Wes Anderson Essentials

Here are 25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film

1. Edificio España | Madrid, Spain

The Edificio Espana opened in 1953 and is the 8th tallest skyscraper in Madrid. The historic building has 25 floors and incorporates 20th-century Spanish architecture in the neo-baroque style.

While the building is a hotel, the complex has a mix of offices, shops, and apartments. Designed by architect Julian Otamendi, it was “the symbol of prosperity” during Francisco Franco Bahamonde’s rule.

Address: Plaza de España 1, Madrid, Spain

25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film
photo by @poealan via @accidentallywesanderson

2. Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine | Kyiv, Ukraine

The Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine is one of the largest libraries in the world. It serves as the main library and science information center for all of Ukraine. The building has 27 floors and contains about 15 million items.

Address: Holosiivskyi prospekt, 3, Kyiv, Ukraine, 03039

25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film
photo by @myshuulee via @accidentallywesanderson

3. Wheelers Oyster Bar | Whistable, England

Wheelers Oyster Bar prides itself on being “the oldest restaurant in town!”

This quaint, family-owned Oyster Bar has been passed through the owner’s family for generations. While the building is gorgeous, their delicious seafood is rumored to be worth the hype!

Address: 8 High St, Whitstable CT5 1BQ, United Kingdom

25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film
photo by @tonia.fest

4. Royal Oxford Hotel | Oxford, United Kingdom

Built in the 1930s, the Royal Oxford Hotel screams Wes Anderson with its bright mustard yellow paint and symmetrical details. When I studied in Oxford, I adored walking past this hotel frequently.

Address: Park End St, Oxford OX1 1HR, United Kingdom

Fairytale City of England
photo by @pursesandplanes

5. Pfunds Molkerei | Dresden, Germany

“The World’s Most Beautiful Milk Shop.” In the 19th century, a farmer traveled from Reinholdshain with his wife and six cows to Dresden in order to supply the city with healthy milk. Through this journey, Pfund dairy was established and is still serving fresh milk to this day.

The interior of this humble beginnings milk shop is elaborately decorated with hand-painted Villeroy & Boch ceramic tiles, all accented in blue and gold.

Pfunds Molkerei is actually a real filming location that was used in Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel for the interior of Mendl’s Confectionery.

Photos are not allowed in Pfunds, unless you are press and have been granted special permission.

Address: Bautzner Str. 79, 01099 Dresden, Germany

25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film
photo via interior.gamersta

6. Húsavík Lighthouse | Husavik, Iceland

Húsavík Lighthouse was built in 1956. It is located on the Húsavík cape and stands at 49 meters, or 160 feet, above sea level.

With its bright yellow structure and desolate background, this lighthouse definitely belongs in a Wes Anderson film.

Address: Vitaslóð 1, 640, Húsavík, Iceland

25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film
photo by @Matthjsvmierlo via nylon

7. American Radiator Building | Manhattan, New York City

Built in 1924 by architects Raymond Hood and Andre Foulihoux, the American Radiator Building is a 23-story landmark building located in Midtown, Manhattan.

The structure is actually based on the famous Tribune Tower in Chicago but with a Gothic Art Deco twist. With its unique color, it’s rumored to symbolize coal. When it lights up at night it is said to look like a giant ball of glowing coal.

Although black isn’t technically a color Wes Anderson would embrace, I think the style of the building is undeniably something that would pop-up in one of his films.

Address: 40 West 40th Street Manhattan, New York City

photo via designyourtrust

8. Stylenanda Pink Hotel | Seoul, South Korea

Despite the misleading title, the Stylenanda Pink Hotel is actually a 6-level store, designed as a hotel.

This popular pink store is located in Seoul and is filled with wondrous rooms of makeup, clothing, accessories, and “Instagrammable” set-ups such as fake pools or an art-deco hotel lobby.

Address: 37-8 Myeongdong 8-gil, Chungmuro 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

9. Bloom & Bean | Liverpool, United Kingdom

Bloom and Bean is a quaint coffee shop in Liverpool decorated from the inside out with chic pale pink and forest green. This little shop looks like the ultimate Wes Anderson cafe experience!

Address: 6a Victoria St, Liverpool L2 6QE, United Kingdom

10. Miami Beach | Florida, USA

Iconic South Beach lifeguard towers have become staple landmarks of Miami Beach.

The classic art deco towers started popping up in the 1990s shortly after hurricane Andrew hit. The towers were part of the effort to revive the area from the devastation. Many more have been constructed since the first few by Architect William Lane.

These towers symbolize the rebirth of the city.

Address: Various towers along the coastline of Miami Beach from the tip at South Pointe Park up to 87th Street.

photo by @mijookim_studio

11. TWA at JFK Airport | New York, USA

The Trans World Flight Center was constructed for Trans World Airlines by Finnish-American architect, Eero Saarinen.

The design of the terminal represents a flight wing and incorporates a Neo-futuristic style. Googie, and Fantastic. While the terminal was originally built in 1962 it has since been renovated and is now owned by the TWA Hotel.

Address: Terminal 5, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Queens, New York 11430; United States

photo by @mikeraz212

12. Muzeum Narodowe | Warsaw, Poland

Muzeum Narodowe, or the National Museum of Warsaw was constructed in 1862, and was unfornately damaged and raided by Nazis in WWII. It has since recovered and is one of the largest museums in Poland.

Address: al. Jerozolimskie 3, 00-495 Warszawa, Poland

photo by @tantejohannes via @accidentallywesanderson

13. Moritzburg Castle | Saxony, Germany

Moritzburg Castle is a Baroque-style palace built in 1546 in the state of Saxony, near Dresden.

The castle features 4 round towers and was built on a symmetrical artificial island. Originally, the palace was a hunting lodge for Moritz of Saxony, the then Duke of Saxony.

Address: Schloßallee, 01468 Moritzburg, Germany

photo by marie_ohh_marie via @accidentallywesanderson

14. Eastern Columbia Building|Los Angeles, California

The Eastern Columbia Building was built in 1930 by Claud Beelman. It is known as the “benchmark of deco buildings in Los Angeles.” and the “Art Deco Jewel of the West.”

It was originally built as the flagship building for the Eastern-Columbia Department Store until they went out of business in 1957. It is now more commonly known as “Eastern Columbia Lofts.”

You may recognize it as one of Johnny Depp’s penthouses or from the TV show, iCarly.

With prominent glossy turquoise, gold trim, and symmetrical features this statement building is perfect for a Wes Anderson film.

Address: 849 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014

photo by @elizabethdaniels01 via @accidentallywesanderson

15. Hawa Mahal | Jaipur, India

The Hawa Mahal is a pink and red sandstone palace in Jaipur, India. This five-story pyramidal-shaped palace was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh.

Its famous honeycomb latticework was originally built to allow royal ladies to observe the daily life of the city from above without being seen since they could not go out in public without face coverings.

Address: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India

photo by @wesleympeterson

16. The Ultimate Picture Palace | Oxford, United Kingdom

The Ultimate Picture Palace opened in 1911 and is the only surviving independent cinema in Oxford. The historic theater has gone through a series of owners and renovations over the years.

In 1996 it’s neoclassical facade was restored and it officially opened under the name as The Ultimate Picture Palace.

The theater is known historically in England for being “a rare surviving example of a simple early cinema.”

Address: Jeune Street, Oxford OX4 1BN

Fairytale City of England
photo by @pursesandplanes

17. Sands Club | Treasure Cay Abaco Island | Bahamas

The Sands Club is a chic farm-to-table beachfront dining experience in Treasure Cay. It’s iconic long dock with pale pink accents make it a Wes Anderson wannabe classic.

Wes Anderson Film
photo by maryschlacter via @accidentallywesanderson

18. The Bathrooms in the British Library | London, United Kingdom

The British Library is the national library of the UK, and has the largest number of cataloged items in the world. These mustard colored walls and sink symmetry are the perfect stylized film aesthetic!

Address: 96 Euston Rd, London NW1 2DB, United Kingdom

Wes Anderson Film
photo by @pursesandplanes

19. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is decorated throughout with Baroque and Art Nouveau style buildings. While these are the most obvious architectural styles, you can also see eclectic, gothic, and soviet influences throughout the city.

Several monuments in Budapest are famous for their unique architectural styles such as the Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and The Fisherman’s Bastion.

photo by @zsolt_hlinka

20. The National Gallery of Ireland | Dublin, Ireland

The National Gallery of Ireland was established in 1864 and opened when it had just twelve paintings. A must-see in Dublin, this gallery is nearly as beautiful as the artwork it contains with its stunning symmetrical layout, pastel colors, and minimalist design.

Wes Anderson Film
photo by @pursesandplanes

21. Grand Hotel Europa | Innsbruck, Austria

The King of Bavaria called it “the finest hotel in Innsbruck.” The Grand Hotel Europa was established in 1869, making it the most historic hotel in Innsbruck. Golden colored walls and ornate chandeliers decorate the interior of this glamorous hotel.

Address: Südtiroler Pl. 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Wes Anderson Film
photo by @joemanderton via @wesandersonplanet

22. Havana, Cuba

Havana is a melting pot of several different architectural styles. When you walk around the city, you will see just how different all of the buildings are – but I that’s what makes Havana so unique!

Havana’s bright-colored buildings largely come from Spanish Colonial influences. Other known styles in Havana are Baroque, Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco.

Havana architecture
Havana architecture

23. Gellért Thermal Baths | Budapest, Hungary

Gellért Hotel was one of the main inspirations behind the design of Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel.

When the hotel opened it’s doors in 1918, it’s iconic Art-nouveau architecture and panoramic mirror entrance quickly made it known as one of the most luxurious hotels in Hungary. The hotel’s ancient thermal baths have been used since the middle ages.

Address: Budapest, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Hungary

24. Estádio do Pacaembu | São Paulo, Brazil

The Estádio do Pacaembu is an Art Deco stadium located in the Pacaembu neighborhood of São Paulo. The stadium was established in 1940 and named after the national celebrity Paulo Machado de Carvalho.

Address: Praça Charles Miller – Pacaembu, São Paulo – SP, 01234-010, Brazil

Wes Anderson Film

25. James Smith & Sons | London, United Kingdom

James Smith & Sons is a historic umbrella store founded in 1930. It’s classic Victorian style storefront makes it a classic dreamy Wes Anderson feel.

Wes Anderson Film

Anderson undoubtedly is inspired by European Baroque, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau architectural styles. Although he and his designers do incorporate a lot of these styles, I don’t think they restrict themselves. Neo Classicalism, Gothic, and other influences can also be seen in his work.

For something to belong in a Wes Anderson it can’t just be a cool looking building. It has to have a story. The beauty of architecture is that it oftentimes reflects the struggle and/or prosperity of a city.

And there you have it! 25 Real-life Places That Belong In a Wes Anderson Film.

The style that Wes Anderson carries into his films is unlike no other. It’s worldly, historic, and it’s all in the details.

I would love to know, have you been to any of these places? And are you as obsessed with Wes Anderson films as much as I am!?

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Nicknamed “The City of Dreaming Spires,” Oxford is truly the most magical fairytale-like city in all of England.

There is so much to love about this city, but I’ll keep it short and let the photos give it justice! Oxford is so unique because it is rich with history, and it’s booming with college students. It’s a beautiful city that is young at heart, yet has an old soul.

“Every city has a sex and an age which have nothing to do with demography. Rome is feminine. So is Odessa. London is a teenager, an urchin, and in this hasn’t changed since the time of Dickens. Paris, I believe, is a man in his twenties in love with an older woman.”

– John Berger

I’m reminded of this quote often when I think of Oxford. While I couldn’t give an exact profile of Oxford in that sense, you can’t help but notice this city has a distinct personality as you meander through the narrow alleyways and whimsical architecture.

Here are some photos to give you a glimpse into Oxford, the Fairytale City of England.

The Radcliffe Camera

The rad cam is one of the most famous landmarks in all of Oxford. It was constructed in 1737 and serves as a library to students of the University of Oxford.

Fairytale City of England

My favorite thing to do in Oxford, is to simply just walk around the streets admiring all the beautiful architecture.

This may sound creepy, but when you get into the suburbs it is so fun to look at the windows of the houses, people here are really clever with their window displays.

The churches are beautiful!

“The Oxford Bridge of Sighs”

Another iconic landmark of Oxford! The official name is the Hertford Bridge, but due to it’s resemblance of the Venetian Bridge of Sighs, the name evolved.

Getting a rooftop view of the city is a must.

My favorite view of the city is from the top of the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin, where you can get a stunning 360 view of the city, the Radcliffe Camera, and All Souls College.

Things to consider before you study abroad

This charming cinema was my favorite place to catch a movie. I wish more theaters where I live in the US were as cute as this!

Fairytale City of England

Did you know Oxford is actually a real fairytale city in England? Can you visualize what classic tale resembles the photos below?

The scenic grounds of the University of Oxford colleges.

The college courtyards are absolutely stunning and are often times open to the public between certain hours! Pictured below are the famous grounds of Christ Church.

Fairytale City of England
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Fairytale City of England

Oxford is a timeless city that takes you back in history. The cobblestone streets, blooming flowers, and ornate architecture are just a few of the things that make Oxford seem like a city from a fairytale.

After all, the classic fairy tale Alice in Wonderland was written in Oxford!

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