Affordable International Christmas Destinations for Nigerians 2025
The holiday season is the perfect time to treat yourself to a getaway filled with festive lights, snowy adventures, and cultural magic. For Nigerians looking to celebrate Christmas abroad, numerous destinations strike a balance between affordability, excitement, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether it’s sipping hot cocoa in London, exploring Christmas markets in Prague, catching the northern lights in Alaska, or enjoying family fun in Orlando, these destinations promise a holiday you’ll never forget. To make your planning easier, we’ve included flight costs from Lagos and Abuja, reasons to visit, top things to do, and safety tips — so you can focus on making memories this Christmas.
France (Paris, Nice, Lyon, etc.)
Flight Cost Estimates
- Flights from Nigeria to France (Paris and other cities) are available for ₦ 900,000–₦1.2 million for a round-trip economy ticket.
Things to Do
- Wander the Christmas markets (Paris has many — Champs-Élysées, La Défense, Tuileries).
- See festive light displays (in many French cities, especially Paris & Strasbourg).
- Ice skating rinks in public squares.
- Visit landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Montmartre.
- Warm up in cafés, try French pastries, and enjoy holiday dinners.
Safety / Travel Tips
- Apply for a Schengen visa well in advance. The French visa process for Nigerians involves TLS Contact in Lagos & the Embassy in Abuja.
- Be aware that during Christmas, tourist spots are crowded — be cautious of pickpockets.
- Book accommodations early — prices increase drastically around December 20-25.
- Use public transport or Uber; avoid walking alone in less busy areas at night.
- Keep copies of travel documents, and know the emergency numbers (112 is standard in many EU countries)
Dubai, UAE
Flight Cost Estimates Round-trip economy ₦900k–₦1.5m
Why Visit? A Nigerian favorite — warm weather, shopping festivals, and luxury experiences at reasonable prices.
Things to Do:
- Dubai Shopping Festival (December–January)
- Christmas brunch at 5-star hotels
- Desert safari tours with BBQ dinners
- Global Village (cultural pavilions + Christmas events)
Tips: The UAE visa process is fast and straightforward; shop smart at souks for great deals.
Safety Tips:
- Dress modestly in public (respect cultural norms).
- Avoid public intoxication — it’s illegal and taken seriously.
- Stick to licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps.
Istanbul, Turkey
Flight Cost (Round-trip) ₦850k–₦1.4m
Why Visit? Not traditionally a “Christmas” destination, but Istanbul mixes European winter vibes with Middle Eastern charm.
Things to Do:
- Explore Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
- Christmas markets at Taksim Square
- Bosphorus dinner cruises with festive lights
Tips: An e-visa is available online. December is chilly, so pack warm clothes.
Safety Tips:
- Haggle politely in bazaars but avoid aggressive touts.
- Stay in tourist-friendly districts such as Sultanahmet, Taksim, or Beşiktaş.
- Be cautious with street food — opt for stalls that are busy and clean.
Cape Town, South Africa
Flight Cost (Round-trip) ₦750k–₦1m
Why Visit? Perfect for those who prefer sunny Christmas vibes — beaches, safaris, and vineyards.
Things to Do:
- Christmas lunch at Camps Bay or V&A Waterfront
- Table Mountain cable car ride
- Safari day trips from Cape Town
Tips: Visa-free for Nigerians for up to 30 days; December is peak season, so book flights early.
Safety Tips:
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially outside the city center.
- Use registered taxis or Uber, not random street rides.
- Don’t flash valuables (such as phones and jewelry) in public.
- Stick to well-known tourist areas.
Lisbon, Portugal
Flight cost (Round-trip) ₦900K- ₦1.2M
Things to Do
- Christmas lights and decorations on Avenida da Liberdade
- Rossio Square Christmas Market
- Tram rides through historic streets
- Day trip to Sintra, Cascais
- Enjoy Portuguese holiday treats and music
Safety Tips:
- Pickpockets operate on trams (especially Tram 28).
- The city is hilly — wear proper walking shoes to avoid slips and falls.
- Don’t carry too much cash; cards are widely accepted.
New York
Flight cost (Round-trip) ₦1.2M- ₦1.5M
Things to Do
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree & ice skating
- Holiday window displays (Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue)
- Central Park in winter, carriage rides
- Christmas Eve / Day services in Manhattan churches
- Broadway shows, holiday markets (Bryant Park, Union Square)
Safety Tips
- Only walk in well-lit, populated areas, especially at night.
- Use the subway safely (avoid empty cars late at night).
- Keep belongings close in crowded areas (Midtown, tourist zones).
Lapland (Finland)
Flight cost (Round-trip) ₦1.4M-₦1.7M
Things to Do
- Visit Santa Claus Village at Rovaniemi
- Reindeer sleigh rides, dog sledding
- Northern Lights sightings
- Snow activities (snowmobiles, ice fishing)
- Stay in ice hotels or cozy cottages
Safety Tips
- The cold is extreme — bring proper thermal layers, boots, and gloves.
- Stay with guided tours when venturing into the wilderness.
- Ice/snow terrain is slippery — use crampons or ice grips on boots.
London, UK
Flight Cost (Round-trip): via Qatar Airways, about ₦1M-₦1.2M.
Highlights:
- Classic Christmas lights across Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden.
- Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park for rides, ice skating, and festive food.
- Theatre shows, Christmas markets, and pairing traditions with modern holiday fun.
Things to Do:
- Visit Christmas lights & decorations in central London.
- Ice-skate at places like Somerset House or Hyde Park.
- Attend a service at Westminster Abbey / St. Paul’s.
- Explore Christmas markets (Southbank, Leicester Square).
- Boxing Day shopping, maybe pop over to the Winter festivals.
Safety Tips:
- Watch for pickpockets in crowded places (Tube, markets).
- Travel with a phone charger and a map/app for directions. Don’t walk alone in the dark or unfamiliar streets.
- Use transport apps or licensed taxis late at night.
- Pack clothes for cold (layer up: coat, gloves, scarf).
Orlando, USA
Flight Cost (Round-trip): ₦1.5M-₦1.8M
Why Go / Highlights:
- Magical for families — theme parks (Disney World, Universal) with special Christmas decorations & events.
- Warm weather for many who prefer less cold at Christmas.
- Great entertainment, shopping, and seasonal shows.
- Visit Disney World & Universal for holiday parades, themed rides.
- Explore Orlando’s shopping outlets & malls.
- Take a boat tour, enjoy warm sunshine, or relax by resort pools.
Safety Tips:
- Theme parks can get crowded — keep your belongings safe and plan your route.
- Orlando’s weather can vary; pack light layers (mornings and evenings are cooler).
- Use park maps and stay hydrated, especially when outdoors.
- Be aware of transit times and allow for buffer travel between parks/events.
Prague, Czech Republic
Flight Cost (Round-trip):₦1.2M-₦1.7M
Why Go / Highlights:
- Magical European Christmas vibes — old town square with markets, Gothic architecture.
- Historical, picturesque — ideal for photography, walking tours.
Things to Do:
- Old Town Square Christmas Market and try mulled wine, along with traditional pastries.
- Visit Prague Castle & Charles Bridge.
- Explore local boiler rooms, music & historic churches.
Safety Tips:
- Be careful with your bag in tourist areas (bridges, markets).
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps.
- Watch the weather — cobblestone streets get slippery in winter.
- Carry a power bank; phones may run out of battery faster in cold weather.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Flight Cost (Round-trip):m₦950K-₦1.2M
Why Go / Highlights:
- Edinburgh is festive with its Christmas Markets, the Castle, and Hogmanay (a celebration around the New Year).
- Beautiful historical architecture, cozy pubs, and winter walks.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Edinburgh Christmas Market.
- Walk up to Edinburgh Castle or Arthur’s Seat for views.
- Join the Hogmanay events (if staying into the New Year).
- Explore Old Town, try haggis and Scotch whisky.
Safety Tips:
- Winter weather: snow/ice = slippery streets — wear good footwear.
- Nights are cold; bring warm layers.
- Use taxis or public transport at night rather than walking alone.
- Be mindful of holiday crowds and avoid distractions while carrying your bags.
