At this time of year when Santa is making his list and checking it twice, we regular folk are doing something MUCH more thrilling: we’re binge-watching Netflix Christmas movies. Charming royals, small towns with cute single guys and Christmas miracles when you need them most – these festive flicks have got it all.
If you’ve ever tuned into one of these films – or, let’s be honest, if you’ve seen all of them – we’re sure you’ve been wondering what these cute towns and snow-covered streets are like in-person. Scroll through to find out where you should travel based on your favourite Netflix Christmas movie.
If You Loved: Let It Snow
Visit: Toronto, Canada
Image source:Netflix / Unsplash
Based on the novel of the same name, Let It Snow boasts an all-star cast of teens celebrating the holidays in their hometown of Laurel, Illinois. But if you fell in love with the picturesque scenery you might be surprised to learn it was actually filmed in Toronto, Georgetown and Millbrook in Ontario, Canada.
For the same magical feeling as Let It Snow, head to Toronto in the winter to explore the city sights before venturing out to smaller towns like Georgetown and Millbrook on day trips for a taste of village life.
Let It Snow isn’t the only Netflix Christmas movie filmed in Ontario, with Christmas Inheritance and The Knight Before Christmas also shot in the region. It’s also the place where the award-winning sitcom Schitt’s Creek was filmed. What can we say, it’s a magical place to visit – and make a movie, apparently.
If You Loved: The Princess Switch – Switched Again
Visit: Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland
Image source:Netflix / Unsplash
Vanessa Hudgens starring as Stacy from Chicago AND Duchess Margaret from the fictional Kingdom of Montenaro? Vying for the heart of a Prince in the equally fictional Kingdom of Belgravia? What a concept!
In this cheesy rom-com, a sequel to the original Princess Switch filmed in Romania, the group are in the Kingdom of Montenaro. And Vanessa plays a third character, Margaret’s cousin Lady Fiona Pembroke. Because why not.
Though they’re in Montenaro, you might recognise the cobblestone streets and castles of Belgravia as famous landmarks in Scotland. Primarily filmed in Scotland, the Netflix movie showcases Glasgow Cathedral, Edinburgh Gateway train station, Parliament Square in Edinburgh, Mimi’s Bakehouse in Leith and Hopetoun House in South Queensferry. Pay a visit to these Scottish cities to experience the beautiful scenery, gothic architecture and charm for yourself.
If You Loved: Holiday In The Wild
Visit: Africa
Image source:Netflix / Unsplash
Two Hollywood heartthrobs and an epic adventure in Africa: What’s not to love about this festive film set in Zambia and South Africa? Kristin Davis and Rob Lowe star as a very likely duo who meet in a luxurious hotel but begin working together at an animal conservation program. Honestly, the stunning scenery and wildlife filmography is one of the major drawcards of the movie – and they’ll have you booking a ticket to Africa ASAP.
If you’re looking to experience the magic of glamping under the stars on desert plains or taking a safari to spot incredible animals in the wild, you could head to Kafue National Park in Zambia, Kruger National Park in South Africa, Chobe National Park in Botswana or many more of the incredible destinations across the continent.
With Contiki, you can even go on an in-depth adventure on trips including the East Africa Safari, Southern Africa Safari and Okavango Delta & Deserts. On Contiki’s new Detour Mini Adventures you can take a Wildlife Photo Safari in Botswana or Learn to be a Safari Guide in Kruger National Park.
If You Loved: A Christmas Prince
Visit: Sinaia and Bucharest, Romania
Image source:Netflix / Unsplash
If there’s one thing Netflix loves, it’s a cheesy Christmas movie. If there’s another, it’s Princes. Can’t get enough of these guys. In the classic 2017 film A Christmas Prince, journalist Amber Moore meets and falls in love with Prince Richard of Aldovia. And there have been two more films, which suspiciously copy the path of another famous royal duo.
The trilogy was filmed in Romania, with the elegant palace of Aldovia set in Peleș Castle in Sinaia. Other key filming locations include the Bragadiru Palace, Cotroceni National Museum and the Carol Davila Medicine and Pharmacy University. Head to Sinaia and Bucharest in Romania to experience the rich history and culture for yourself.
If You Loved: The Christmas Chronicles
Visit: Chicago, The USA
Image source:Netflix / Unsplash
Two kids sneaking on to Santa’s sleigh and crashing it down in the city of Boston? Kurt Russell as Santa Claus? Yes, please! In this instant classic, Santa and the Pierce kids take to the streets of Chicago to find his lost presents and save Christmas. Although it’s meant to be Chicago, the film was actually produced in Toronto, Canada. Yep, another one.
But if you’re looking for a good time and unforgettable experience, then we think Chicago is your go-to destination for your next trip. Check out the cosy bars, innovative architecture and sports stadiums of the windy city. Shout out to Millennium Park for being one of the coolest places in the USA!
