The festive season transforms cities around the world into dazzling winter wonderlands. And Christmas trees are at the heart of these transformations. Beyond just decoration, these trees are the symbols of joy, hope, and togetherness. They offer cherished spots for couples, families, and friends eager to capture that perfect photo-worthy Christmas moment. From classic evergreen trees with millions of lights to artistic installations, there are several Instagrammable Christmas trees around the world that will make your social media sparkle. Let's discover some of the most captivating Christmas trees for 2025 and experience the magic of the season!
Most Iconic Christmas Trees Around the World
Here’s a list of some of the most enchanting holiday displays around the world:
1. Rockefeller Center (New York City, USA)
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For decades, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York City has been synonymous with the American holiday season. This majestic Norway spruce in Rockefeller Plaza stands 75 to 90-feet tall and is adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights. A dazzling Swarovski star at the top is the pinnacle of holiday lighting installations. The tree's journey from a family's backyard to the heart of New York City is a story in itself. The lighting ceremony is usually held on the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving, marking the start of Christmas in New York City.
- Display Dates: Early November to mid-January
- Lighting Ceremony: 3 December 2025
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning (around 5 to 6 AM)
2. Galeries Lafayette (Paris, France)
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Housed within the opulent Galeries Lafayette department store in Paris, the magnificent Christmas tree is nothing short of a breathtaking surprise! Installed right under the iconic Art Nouveau dome since 1976, the 16-meter-tall tree sets new holiday decor trends each year with its dazzling display and unique theme. It sometimes even features unique elements like an ice rink on the rooftop, offering stunning views of illuminated Paris. For 2025, the Christmas tree has been designed by Kevin Germanier, showcasing a grandeur and artistic flair that make it incredibly photoworthy.
- Display Dates: 12 November to 31 December 2025
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for lesser crowds
Suggested Read: Famous Places to Visit in Paris
3. St. Peter's Square (Vatican City)
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In the spiritual heart of Vatican City, St. Peter's Square hosts one of the most beautiful Christmas trees in the world along with a traditional Nativity scene. This tradition was started by Pope John Paul II in 1982 and involves the annual donation of a 27-meter Norway spruce by the communities of Lagundo and Ultimo in Italy. The tree often features environmentally conscious decorations and is repurposed after the holidays. Each year, it transforms the square into a scene of serene beauty, with thoughtful installations creating a unique spiritual backdrop for photography.
- Display Dates: 9 December 2025 to 7 January 2026
- Lighting Ceremony: 9 December 2025 at 6:30 PM
4. Trafalgar Square (London, UK)
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Each Christmas, London's Trafalgar Square proudly displays a towering Norwegian spruce gifted by the people of Oslo. Since 1947, Oslo gifts a 25-metre-tall Christmas tree in gratitude for Britain's support during World War II. This elegant tree is adorned with traditional vertical strings of energy-efficient lights, creating a quintessential British Christmas atmosphere and an excellent photo backdrop. The tree lighting ceremony is a significant event accompanied by carol singers throughout the month.
- Display Dates: 4 December 2025 to 5 January 2026
- Lighting Ceremony: 4 December at 5 PM
Suggested Read: Top Activities to Welcome New Year in London in Style
5. Gardens by the Bay (Singapore)
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Right in the heart of Singapore, Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay transforms into an awe-inspiring spectacle during Christmas. The towering vertical gardens are adorned with dazzling lights and festive decorations, creating the magical Christmas Wonderland event. This unique display showcases cutting-edge holiday lighting installations, snowfall shows, festive performances, carnival games, and emerging holiday decor trends. The 2025 season will also host the Christmas Train Show (Flower Dome), taking you through snowy, festive floral landscapes with Christmas trees and other decorations.
- Display Dates: 29 November 205 to 01 January 2026
- Lighting Ceremony: 29 November at 6:30 PM
6. Tokyo Disneyland (Tokyo, Japan)
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Both Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea embrace the holiday spirit with their own distinct and equally Instagrammable Christmas trees. At Tokyo DisneySea, a large, glittering tree lights up the night, creating a festive atmosphere. Tokyo Disneyland also features festive decorations and special entertainment. The parks are filled with themed Christmas tree decorations for Instagram, special parades, and unique merchandise, offering endless photo-worthy Christmas trees and holiday scenes for families and friends.
- Display Dates: 11 November to 25 December 2025
- Experience: Themed entertainment, seasonal treats, and exclusive merchandise enhance the holiday magic
Suggested Read: Explore Top Places to Celebrate New Year in Tokyo
7. Martin Place (Sydney, Australia)
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Sydney embraces Christmas with vibrant outdoor celebrations, and the Martin Place Christmas Tree stands as a proud centerpiece. Illuminated by over 100,000 lights – a truly dazzling holiday lighting installation – and adorned with Australian-themed Christmas tree decorations for Instagram, including 300 glossy baubles, this 24-meter-tall tree is the tallest in New South Wales. The tree lighting, often accompanied by Santa's arrival, signals the start of the festive season in late November. It's a fantastic Christmas photo backdrop that combines traditional cheer with a unique Aussie twist, making it a truly Instagrammable Christmas tree.
- Display Dates: 27 November 2025 to 4 January 2026
- Special Feature: Australian-themed ornaments and a dazzling light show
8. Brandenburg Gate (Berlin, Germany)
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In front of Berlin's iconic Brandenburg Gate, a stately Christmas tree is erected and festively decorated each year, offering a powerful and historic Christmas photo backdrop. This large spruce, often over 20 meters tall, is usually adorned with thousands of LED lights and hundreds of glittering ornaments, creating a stunning holiday lighting installation. The lighting ceremony officially marks the start of Berlin's Christmas celebrations, drawing crowds to marvel at the beautifully illuminated tree against one of Europe's most famous landmarks. It's a beautiful spot to capture the spirit of European holiday traditions.
- Display Dates: 21 November to 31 December 2025
- Atmosphere: A blend of historical significance and festive cheer
Suggested Read: The Ultimate New Year in Berlin: Parties, Cruises, Fireworks, and More
9. Rio de Janeiro Floating Christmas Tree (Brazil)
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Rio de Janeiro is famous for hosting the largest floating Christmas tree in the world on the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. It was also recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. Sometimes reaching 184 feet tall, this spectacular metallic structure features millions of lights creating dynamic patterns and scenes on the water. Its inauguration ceremony is a major event, featuring fireworks and music. This tree is the ultimate holiday decor trend, with its monumental scale and captivating display and a truly unforgettable sight, especially against Rio’s stunning natural landscape.
Display Dates: Late November to Early January (dates to be announced yet)
Tips for Exploring Instagrammable Christmas Trees Worldwide
To truly make the most of your festive journey and capture those stunning shots of Instagrammable Christmas Trees a little planning goes a long way.
- Go early or late to avoid peak crowds for clearer photos
- Use a tripod for crisp low-light shots, especially of elaborate holiday lighting installations
- Capture unique ornaments and the latest Christmas tree decorations for Instagram
- Dress festively to enhance your photos
- Check local schedules for lighting ceremonies and display times
- Carry power banks to keep your phones charged
The world truly lights up during the holiday season, offering an incredible array of Christmas Trees that are much more than just festive decor. They are beacons of wonder, inviting us to pause, celebrate, and create lasting memories. Whether you are looking to immerse in the classic grandeur of New York or the unique artistry of Singapore, these Instagrammable Christmas trees around the world promise a magical experience. So, plan your trip with our tour packages and get ready to capture the enchanting spirit of Christmas around the globe!
FAQ’s - Instagrammable Christmas Trees Around the World
Most major Christmas trees are lit in late November or early December, following Thanksgiving in some regions.
Yes, many cities use sustainably sourced trees, and some repurpose them after the holidays for mulch or other uses.
Trends include velvet ornaments, bows, jewel tones, organic greenery, and nostalgic decor.
Visit early morning or late evening for fewer crowds. Use a tripod, capture details, and experiment with angles.
No, some stunning displays, like Singapore's Supertrees, are art installations or artificial structures.
Generally, yes, public tree lighting ceremonies are free, though surrounding events might be ticketed.
The floating Christmas tree in Rio de Janeiro's Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas has held this record.
Yes, many locations offer unique themes, from traditional elegance to whimsical character displays.