From Paris to Rio, these aren’t just Christmas trees — they’re architectural marvels draped in thousands of lights, drawing crowds from across the globe.
As every year, cities from all four corners of the world adorn themselves with lights to mark the end-of-year festivities. Among the most remarkable decorative elements are the famous Christmas trees, whose height or decorations attract thousands of tourists who have travelled solely to admire every detail of their foliage.
For the year 2025, the tourist activity booking platform Civitatis has revealed its ranking of the most beautiful Christmas trees observed in the world. Illuminated garlands, high-altitude structures and gigantic ribbons… A tour of the 10 most captivating enchanted trees in the world.
The Galeries Lafayette tree in Paris
View this post on Instagram
The decorations planned in the famous Galleries of the French capital were designed by illustrator Jeanne Detallante. This year, the tree installed under the dome until December 31 stands 16 meters tall and bears 300 kg of fabrics, 560 kg of ribbons and 8 km of garlands. All under the theme “The Most Beautiful Gift”.
The Rockefeller Center tree in New York
View this post on Instagram
It’s one of the most coveted attractions during the end-of-year festivities in the Big Apple. At Rockefeller Center, the tree rises 20 to 30 meters high and accumulates nearly 8 km of illuminations. At the heart of all desires: its immense 3-meter star made of Swarovski crystals. The tree lighting ceremony, broadcast worldwide, is scheduled to take place on December 3. It officially marks the launch of the end-of-year festivities.
The warm tree of Budapest
View this post on Instagram
In the Hungarian capital, one must go in front of St. Stephen’s Basilica to find the city’s most attractive tree. Located at the heart of a Christmas market, it stands proudly in front of the building like a spectator of the various light projections made on its stone. An essential place to fill up on magic.
The luminous dome of Vilnius
View this post on Instagram
In Lithuania, the city of Vilnius is dominated by a 16-meter-high metal structure installed in the old town square. Its 25,000 lights blend with the other decorations of the surrounding streets. As a bonus, the tree is surrounded by a sumptuous Christmas market.
The immense tree of the Italian city of Gubbio
View this post on Instagram
For 40 years, this tree has been particularly well-known since it is considered every year as the largest Christmas tree in the world. In addition to having joined the Guinness Book of Records. In 2025, it extends on Mount Ingino over nearly 750 meters and consists of 700 lights. It will light up in the night from December 7.
The Strasbourg Christmas market tree
View this post on Instagram
The city of Strasbourg, being considered the capital of Christmas, its tree is quite a symbol. Erected on Place Kléber, it was designed this year around the theme of the Advent wreath. Four doors adorned with wreaths are moreover installed at its base. This giant of more than 30 meters and nearly 7.5 tons will stand at the heart of the city until January 5.
The festive tree of Prague
View this post on Instagram
The tree is installed in the historic heart of Prague, on Old Town Square, until January 6. Placed among the Christmas market stalls, and 24 meters tall, the gleam of its lights bounces off the baroque facades of the buildings that surround the square, also animated by concerts and other shows. Enough to create a magical atmosphere.
The Zócalo tree in Mexico City
Facing the Metropolitan Cathedral, the tree of the Mexican capital stands among various activity sites. At its base, one finds notably an ice rink and festive music. The surrounding facades are adorned with other illuminations, making the square a vast work of art.
The floating tree in Rio de Janeiro
After several years of absence, the Christmas tree of Lagoa is back on the Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon. A strategic location that allows the illuminations to reflect in the water and further amaze visitors. The giant, equipped with approximately 90,000 lights, rises to nearly 60 meters high.
The Puerta del Sol tree in Madrid
View this post on Instagram
On Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s best-known square, the Christmas tree is the country’s most popular centre of attraction. With its thousands of golden garlands, it was inaugurated on November 22 and can be seen from afar from many streets in the city. An enchanted landmark.
This article was originally published by LR Media on the Marie Claire France website.
Translated and syndicated for Marie Claire Nigeria by Esther Akinbola
