The World’s Best Christmas Tree: A Festive Gem in Kraków

Every December, cities worldwide compete to bring their holiday cheer to life with dazzling Christmas trees. This year, Kraków, Poland, has been crowned home to the world’s most iconic Christmas tree by Time Out magazine, leaving other spectacular displays in Gubbio, Italy, and New York City vying for second and third place.

Kraków’s tree, that was displayed on December 6, 2024, graces the heart of its UNESCO-listed Old Town. It is located in the historic market square next to the cathedral. It’s a breathtaking sight that feels straight out of a Christmas card. The tree is decked with 26,000 energy-saving lights and over 1,000 baubles inspired by ornaments from Wawel Castle.

Surrounding the tree is Kraków’s famous Christmas market, consistently ranked among Europe’s finest. The market teems with festive energy, offering handmade crafts, warm mulled wine, and local delicacies. Kraków’s medieval architecture enhances the magical atmosphere, drawing millions of visitors during the holiday season.

Second Place: Gubbio, Italy’s Mountain of Light

Coming in second is the enchanting display in Gubbio, Italy, where holiday tradition takes on a monumental scale. Since 1981, the slopes of Mount Ingino have transformed into a glowing Christmas tree formed by hundreds of lights.

Spanning an incredible 450 meters in width and 750 meters in height, Gubbio’s tree is the largest in the world. It features over 300 lights outlining the silhouette, with a dazzling star covering 1,000 square meters at its peak. This engineering marvel has become a symbol of the town’s holiday spirit.

The lighting ceremony is a highly anticipated event, attracting visitors from far and wide. Against the backdrop of Italy’s serene countryside, Gubbio’s tree is a unique spectacle that merges natural beauty with festive joy.

Third Place: Rockefeller Center, New York’s Timeless Tradition

Securing third place is New York City's Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, an iconic symbol of the holiday season worldwide. Since 1933, this cherished tradition has turned Midtown Manhattan into a dazzling hub of festive spirit.

The 2024 tree, a towering Norway spruce over 75 feet tall, was lit during a spectacular ceremony on December 4. Adorned with tens of thousands of twinkling lights and topped with a Swarovski crystal star, it’s a sight that embodies the magic of the season.

Millions of visitors flock to Rockefeller Center each year to marvel at the tree, skate on the iconic ice rink, and soak in the festive atmosphere. This enduring tradition has become synonymous with Christmas in New York, making it a must-visit destination during the holidays.

What Makes a Christmas Tree Truly Iconic?

Each of these trees brings a unique charm to the holiday season:

• Kraków’s medieval ambiance and rich history transport visitors to a bygone era.
• Gubbio’s larger-than-life display showcases the creativity and community spirit of a small Italian town.
• Rockefeller Center’s tree symbolizes the bustling, joyous energy of a global city.

These iconic trees serve as more than festive decorations—they are symbols of tradition, joy, and unity.