If you have a sweet tooth, Amsterdam is the place to indulge. Stroll along the canals and soak up the city’s festive charm through its sweets. Have some warm, gooey stroopwafels filled with caramel syrup, or bite into soft, sugar-dusted oliebollen, a traditional Dutch doughnut. Don’t miss spiced holiday cookies like pepernoten and speculaas, each a delicious taste of Dutch festive tradition. With your sweet cravings satisfied, explore cosy cafes and visit some of Amsterdam’s most famous museums, all within walking distance from Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam.
Let Christmas Foods Around the World Guide Your Next Destination
From Stroopwafels to Oliebollen: Amsterdam, Netherlands
If you have a sweet tooth, Amsterdam is the place to indulge. Stroll along the canals and soak up the city’s festive charm through its sweets. Have some warm, gooey stroopwafels filled with caramel syrup, or bite into soft, sugar-dusted oliebollen, a traditional Dutch doughnut. Don’t miss spiced holiday cookies like pepernoten and speculaas, each a delicious taste of Dutch festive tradition. With your sweet cravings satisfied, explore cosy cafes and visit some of Amsterdam’s most famous museums, all within walking distance from Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam. Glühwein and Christmas Markets: Frankfurt, Germany
If you love festive drinks and tasty snacks, Frankfurt is the place to be. From sweet treats to savoury bites and spiced delights, the city has it all, offering a wide variety of Christmas food. Frankfurt’s traditional Christmas markets are a must-visit, and Avani Frankfurt City Hotel is just a ten-minute walk away, making it easy to step out for Glühwein, sausages, stollen, and roasted chestnuts.
Stroll through the markets and enjoy the rich, spiced aroma of Glühwein, with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. Between market visits, explore the city’s streets, museums, and riverside views. With a little luck, you might even experience a classic white Christmas in Frankfurt.
(Frankfurt’s biggest Christmas Market: The Römerberg – 12-minute walk from Avani Frankfurt City Hotel)
Sushi, Ramen, and a KFC Dinner: Tokyo, Japan
Christmas takes a twist in Tokyo. If your holiday taste leans towards something unexpected, Japan is sure to surprise you. Known for its ramen, sushi, and delicate flavours, Japan adds a unique culinary spin to Christmas food traditions, celebrating with KFC.
Every year, families across Japan swap the traditional turkey dinner for a KFC party barrel, including cake, salad, and, of course, fried chicken. The tradition has become so popular that people order these festive meals weeks in advance.
After days of authentic ramen and sushi, join locals in this fun Christmas feast. It’s a light-hearted reminder that the festive spirit can come in many flavours. And when you’re not sampling Japan’s dishes, don’t forget to hit the slopes for some skiing and snowy fun. If your holiday cravings lean towards comfort food with a cultural twist, Japan should be at the top of your winter travel list!
From Sweet Treats to Savoury Eats, Venice Has It All: Venice, Italy
Looking for a peaceful winter escape? Venice may be famous for its spring and summer magic, but in the winter, the city is full of delicious surprises. Whether your taste buds crave something sweet or savoury, Venice won’t make you choose!
The city is more festive than you might expect. Hop on a 17-minute ferry to Murano and dive into the Natale di Vetro Festival (Festival of Glass), where sparkling creations light up the winter days. Murano isn’t just about glass; it’s also known for its local culinary delights, so be sure to try a few specialties while you’re there! After a day of exploring the islands, return to the Avani Rio Novo Hotel, and discover the rest of Venice.
Of course, no Venetian winter is complete without tasting the city’s culinary classics. Italy is famous for pasta, pizza, and tiramisu, but Venice has a few festive surprises up its sleeve. Try Bigoli in Salsa, a rich, traditional pasta typically served on Christmas Eve and other festive days. Then, balance it out with Panettone, the sweet, fluffy bread enjoyed during Christmas and New Year. Sweet bread and fishy pasta might sound unusual, but trust us, it’s a combination that screams Venetian Christmas magic.Bold Brews and Good Luck: Bogota, Colombia
Looking for some strong coffee and a little bit of luck? This winter, Bogotá is calling your name. The city’s crisp air and vibrant streets are the perfect setting to explore its Christmas flavours, which balance tradition with creativity. Start with lechona, a slow-roasted pork and rice dish that brings families together during the holiday season.
Then, enjoy buñuelos - golden, crispy dough discs that are a sweet seasonal favourite said to bring good luck for the year ahead. Pair these treats with authentic Colombian coffee at El Rocío Café, just a short walk from the Avani Royal Zona T Bogotá Hotel, and you’ll taste why Bogotá is a city full of festive delights.
But Bogotá isn’t just for food lovers. Take a stroll around Virrey Park or drive 8 minutes to Parque del Chico – Mercedes Sierra de Pérez to enjoy the city’s atmosphere. The hotel is also surrounded by restaurants offering cuisines from all around the world, so you can explore beyond Colombian flavours. With Avani located in the shopping neighbourhood, it’s easy to combine seasonal dining with a bit of holiday shopping. For Bold coffee, and some extra luck for the year ahead, Bogotá is the perfect winter destination.Christmas Classics and Summer Delights: Australia
When you think of Christmas foods, a roast turkey is often the first thing that comes to mind, and in Australia, it’s no different. Families gather around tables filled with comforting dishes, celebrating with all the flavours of a traditional Christmas feast. With Christmas falling in the height of summer, Australians often complement these meals with something light and refreshing: the pavlova.
This dessert, crispy on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, and topped with fresh, juicy fruits, is the perfect way to cool down during Australia’s warm festive season. More than just a sweet treat, pavlova is a symbol of family, festivity, and the unique culinary traditions that make Christmas in Australia so memorable.
Australia offers a holiday experience that pairs perfectly with these flavours. Families and kids can enjoy Christmas lights, festive activities, and seasonal cheer. Whether you prefer the vibrant city atmosphere of Avani Melbourne Jazz Corner Residences or the relaxed beachside charm of Avani Broadbeach Residences, you’ll enjoy the same Australian festive traditions, just with your choice of scenery.
For food lovers, the combination of a traditional roast, Australian Christmas cake, and a refreshing pavlova makes Australia your destination this winter.
Bold, Savoury and Comforting: Gaborone, Botswana
If you’re craving something savoury, comforting, and a warm winter, Gaborone is the place to be. At the heart of the city’s festive flavours is seswaa, a slow-cooked beef dish that tells the story of Botswana’s rich traditions. Often served during Christmas and family gatherings, it’s best enjoyed with laughter, good company, and the warmth of the season.
At Avani Gaborone Resort & Casino, you can venture to nearby local spots to try seswaa, or savour it in the comfort of the hotel’s restaurants. Afterwards, unwind with a dip in the pool or relax in one of our cosy rooms, the perfect way to escape the winter but still enjoy the festivities.
Choosing just one might be tricky, but wherever your taste buds take you, Avani Hotels makes every stay cosy, relaxing, and memorable.
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