With ice skating rinks and Christmas markets, these airports make holiday travel enjoyable.

It's the most magical time of the year ... to be at an airport. Seriously, hear us out.

Holiday travel can be challenging for many reasons, but your time at the airport doesn't have to be unpleasant. If you find yourself at an airport that embraces the festive spirit, it can actually be a delightful part of your travel experience. Some airports go above and beyond with festive activities and amenities that extend far beyond a beautifully decorated Christmas tree or menorah display.

During this season, select airports around the globe feature ice skating rinks, bustling Christmas markets, and even flights to the "North Pole." Here are some of the most remarkable ways to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit while traveling through airports this season.

Explore Munich's renowned Christmas market.

The beloved tradition of Christmas markets is returning to Munich International Airport (MUC) from November 17 to December 31, 2023. The market operates daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., except on Christmas Eve, when it closes early at 4 p.m.

Enjoy ice skating and curling every day on the beautiful ice rink lined with fir trees, open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Skating costs just 5 euros ($5.43), including free skate rental for unlimited time, while curling is available for 25 euros ($27.13) per hour.

Here, you can find exquisite handblown glass ornaments, unique artisan crafts, and warm mulled wine. If shopping isn't your preference, you can enjoy live music, or depending on when you visit, catch a magic show, face painting, or even a surprise visit from Santa Claus himself.

Recreate 'Home Alone' moments at Chicago's O'Hare.

At Terminal 3 of Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD), the iconic 8-foot-long red bows, 7,500 twinkling white lights, and countless illuminated doves have been more than just movie props for the McAllister family in "Home Alone." These festive decorations have graced this international hub for decades.

The airport's #ChiOnTheFly entertainment brings the magic of Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with live music, to travelers throughout the holiday season.

While in Chicago, keep an eye out for Santa on the festive Allstate CTA Holiday Train, a beloved tradition of the Chicago Transit Authority since 1992 (with a few exceptions during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic).

Explore a Christmas cabin at Helsinki Airport.

If your travels bring you near Gate 40 at Helsinki Airport (HEL), be sure to visit the free Christmas Cabin featuring an elf door, a Finnish sauna, and all the delightful sights and scents of the holiday season.

If you want to experience the Finnish Christmas Cabin but can't make it through the airport during the holiday season, there's no need to worry. It’s open year-round, so it will be ready for you whenever you visit Helsinki.

Take a flight to the North Pole with United.

Did you know that sometimes, United Airlines organizes fantasy flights, special seasonal journeys that bring holiday cheer to festive airport gates for select families? For over 30 years, this team has created memorable holiday experiences for children facing life-threatening illnesses and their loved ones. The airline collaborates with local hospitals at its various hubs and updates the recipient list each year.

These short flights take off, circle around, and provide an amazing inflight experience for kids and their guardians before landing at the 'North Pole,' where Santa and his elves (in this case, United employees and volunteers) welcome the children and host a fantastic holiday luncheon.

Discover Singapore Changi's Festive Village

If you're traveling through Singapore between November 4, 2023, and January 1, 2024, make sure to check out the spectacular Changi Festive Village. As if Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) didn't already have enough attractions — the massive slide is a personal favorite — the airport truly comes to life during the holiday season with its vibrant village.

This year's theme is Candy Wonderland, featuring a "snow show" multiple times each evening, candy-themed carnival games, a gigantic bouncy house, go-karts, an ice house, and a delightful train ride. The indoor winter wonderland also offers live musical performances.

For those who enjoy spending extended time at the airport, there’s a "Candylicious Night at the Airport" sleepover that includes a chocolate workshop, airport tours, and even a pop-up tent amidst all the candy excitement.

Last-minute holiday travel tips

We wish you a season filled with holiday magic and excitement, no matter which airports you pass through. However, if your journey feels more like it was planned by the Grinch than Buddy the Elf, here are some tips to keep things moving smoothly:

• Escape to an airport lounge for a moment of peace and quiet, where you can recharge and grab a bite to eat or drink. Many credit cards offer lounge access, and there are also programs available for active-duty military travelers.
• Enjoy a meal at an airport restaurant with a Priority Pass membership. This perk is included with various credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. Plus, there's a new grab-and-go lounge concept in Denver.
• Ensure your TSA PreCheck membership is active, and consider signing up for Clear as well. Here are some ways to save on Clear, including trial memberships that are currently offered.
• If you don’t have any line-reducing tools, check if you can make a reservation to expedite airport security.
• Don’t forget to check out these tips for surviving holiday air travel with kids and consult this reliable guide to flying with children of all ages if you’re traveling with younger family members.