15 Best Destinations for Christmas in Europe

Looking to spend Christmas in Europe? Uncover the magic of Christmas across Europe, exploring festive traditions, vibrant markets & snowy landscapes in 15 charming cities.

There’s something about spending Christmas in Europe that feels like stepping into a holiday card. The best European destinations for Christmas are those that feel as though they’ve been plucked straight out of a festive fairy tale, and Zagreb, Croatia is no exception. During the holidays, this city transforms into one of the best places in Europe for Christmas – a picture-perfect winter wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and filled with cheer.

The aroma of fresh gingerbread wafts through the chilly air as locals gather to sip on mulled wine, huddle around bonfires, and share age-old traditions. The city squares brim with stalls offering handmade crafts perfect for gifts or mementoes.

Families can be found skating at the outdoor ice rinks while joyful tunes fill their ears. In Zagreb, Christmas is more than just a day on the calendar; it’s an experience that captivates all senses.

Next on our list of best Christmas villages in Europe is Strasbourg in France. Known as “the capital of Christmas”, Strasbourg lives up to its title by offering one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe – Christkindelsmärik – which dates back to 1570!

Walking through its narrow streets lined by half-timbered houses draped in decorations makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Strasbourg’s Grande Île hosts countless wooden chalets selling everything from festive ornaments to local Alsatian delicacies such as bredele cookies and mulled white wine.

Here, you can witness true Alsatian Yuletide traditions come alive before your eyes – it’s small wonder why many believe Strasbourg to be one of the best destinations in Europe for Christmas. Moving on from France to Germany, Aachen becomes another must-visit place during the festive season.

Home to Germany’s oldest cathedral, Aachen transforms into a magical marketplace where confectionery lovers can savor the city’s traditional gingerbread known as Aachener Printen. The sweet scent of caramelized nuts, grilled sausages, and spiced Glühwein fill the air, making Aachen one of the best places in Europe to spend Christmas.

Whether you’re exploring one of these cities or any other European Christmas destinations, you’re bound to find an abundance of yuletide joy and a wealth of cultural experiences. From glittering markets bustling with holiday shoppers to quaint old towns brimming with festive cheer, celebrating Christmas in Europe is an unforgettable adventure filled with timeless traditions and heartwarming hospitality.

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15 Best Destinations for Christmas in Europe

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, Croatia

Immerse yourself in one of the best European Christmas destinations, Zagreb, Croatia. Known for its grandiose Advent festival, this Croatian capital is a spectacle of lights and holiday cheer during winter. The city center transforms into an enormous celebration, with vibrant stalls offering traditional delicacies, mulled wine being poured generously, and a myriad of handmade crafts being sold as unique Yuletide gifts to take home.

In Zagreb, there’s an unmistakable sense of magic that makes it one of the best places for Christmas in Europe. The ice rink at King Tomislav Square is a must-visit spot where locals and tourists alike lace up their skates to glide along the ice under the twinkling holiday lights.

As you skate around this picturesque location accompanied by cheerful holiday tunes or explore the city’s beautifully lit streets lined with stately buildings from bygone eras, you would agree that Zagreb indeed deserves its spot amongst the best Christmas destinations in Europe. But what truly sets this European Christmas destination apart are its unique traditions such as live nativity scenes scattered across various corners of the city.

These nativities breathe life into biblical stories making it an unforgettable experience for both young and old visitors alike. Another feather in its cap is the gastronomic delights that make Zagreb one of the best places in Europe to spend Christmas.

Try ‘fritule’, small doughnuts served hot sprinkled with powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate sauce; these sweet treats epitomize festive comfort food. Concluding our journey through one of the best Europe Christmas destinations, don’t miss out on taking an enchanting walk through Zrinjevac Park adorned with over 220 trees wrapped in more than 1000 strings of colorful bulbs forming luminous archways – a sight which will make you believe you’re walking inside a fairy-tale!

So if anyone asks me where’s the best place for Christmas in Europe, I might just let them in on my secret and suggest Zagreb. The city’s festive spirit, rich practices, sumptuous food, and radiant Christmas markets make it an undisputed choice amongst the best Christmas European destinations.

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Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, France

Let’s wind our way to Strasbourg, France next, a city whose Christmas traditions are as rich and full-bodied as the wine it produces. Known affectionately as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg truly offers a holiday celebration that is second to none.

It undeniably stands high in the ranks of best places in Europe for Christmas. There’s an undeniable charm woven into every corner of this city during the holiday season, making it one of the best destinations in Europe for Christmas.

The cobblestoned streets glow under a canopy of twinkling lights, while strains of carols float from street performers to mix with laughter and conversation. You can’t help but be swept up in the festive spirit that pervades Strasbourg; it’s undoubtedly a top contender for best place for Christmas in Europe.

Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik, which started all the way back in 1570, is one of the oldest and most respected European Christmas destinations. Every December, its historic town center transforms into a festive market adorned with handcrafted decorations and myriad stalls offering traditional Alsatian confections.

And if you think that sounds magical wait until you see Place Kléber! With its monumental Christmas tree standing tall amidst hundreds of tiny wooden huts selling artisanal crafts and hearty Alsatian cuisine, this square easily ranks among the best places for Christmas in Europe.

In fact, it seems Strasbourg was crafted by yuletide itself to become one of the finest European picturesque postcards during December – making it one of the best European destinations for Christmas. Its half-timbered houses adorned with festive décor look just like gingerbread creations lit up against winter’s dark canvas making it one among many other delightful European destinations with proud claims to being best places in Europe to spend christmas.

If you want an unforgettable Yuletide experience filled with centuries-old tradition at its heart but still modern enough where every convenience is a snowball’s throw away, Strasbourg, France should be number one on your Christmas Europe bucket list. It stands tall as an undisputed contender for the title of best European Christmas destination.

When it comes to enjoying the season in a place where every street corner jingles with merriment, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern revelry creating an atmosphere that’s impossible not to love – no other city does it quite like Strasbourg. Soak up the festive spirit and marvel at its beauty; you may just find that it’s not just one of the best Christmas cities in Europe, but perhaps even in the world.

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Aachen, Germany

Aachen, Germany

Aachen, a city steeped in rich history and traditions. Nestled at the borders of Belgium and the Netherlands, this charming German city is one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe.

Its enchanting medieval architecture serves as the perfect backdrop for one of Germany’s oldest and most loved Christmas markets. As you wander through cosy stalls laden with festive delicacies, you’ll understand why it’s considered a top European Christmas destination.

Let me paint a picture for you: It’s a brisk December evening; your breath dissipates into the chilly air as twinkling lights illuminate cobblestone streets. You find yourself immersed in wonderful smells – gingerbread, mulled wine and Aachen’s signature Printen biscuits wafting through the air; they are an integral part of Christmas in Europe.

A visit to Charlemagne’s cathedral is highly recommended during this time too. The ancient edifice comes alive with festive choral concerts that echo through its grand walls, adding to the ethereal charm of Christmas Europe offers.

So if you’re wondering about the best place for Christmas in Europe, Aachen is a strong contender. Whether it’s their traditional cookies or their illuminated historic sites steeped in mystery during winter nights – it certainly earns its place among the best places in Europe to spend Christmas.

Indeed many say that there is no better place than Aachen when experiencing an authentic European Yuletide celebration. From gazing upon handcrafted gifts to savouring local delicacies around joyously decorated squares – your senses will be treated to true Christmastime magic making it one of the best places for Christmas in Europe.

The next time someone asks you about great European destinations for celebrating Yuletime spirit or what city embodies festivity at its finest – don’t forget to mention Aachen! It’s not just one of Germany’s but one of Europe’s hidden gems when hunting for an unforgettable holiday experience – a city truly deserving of its reputation as one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe!

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Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria, a place that easily makes the list of the best European destinations for Christmas. The city transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the Christmas season.

Just imagine walking around after a fresh snowfall; everything is sugarcoated in white and twinkling with holiday lights. You can warm up with some hot glühwein as you meander through one of the many Christmas markets dotted throughout the city.

The Rathausplatz market is particularly famous and one of the best Christmas cities in Europe to see elegantly decorated stalls selling an array of handicrafts, delectable food, and beverages. Yet another reason why Vienna ranks high amongst European Christmas destinations is its deeply rooted traditions.

Visit Stephansdom Cathedral to attend a glorious midnight mass on Christmas eve or catch a performance by Vienna Boys Choir for their heartwarming rendition of classic carols. Of course, we mustn’t overlook Wiener Christkindlmarkt held at Rathausplatz which has over 150 stalls!

It’s undoubtedly one of the best places in Europe to spend Christmas if you love shopping for unique and handmade gifts whilst savoring local delicacies like Lebkuchen (spiced cookies) or Bratwurst (grilled sausages). As far as best European destinations for Christmas go, few can compete with Vienna’s magnificent palaces such as Schönbrunn Palace which hosts another beautiful market within its grand courtyard.

As you stroll around its glittering stalls under shadowy baroque architecture creating an unparalleled festive atmosphere. But certainly not least amongst reasons why it might be considered the best place in Europe for Christmas is Kursalon Wien where you can enjoy Strauss and Mozart concerts to keep your spirits high throughout the season.

In essence, when thinking about spending your next festive season wandering aimlessly from one enchanting holiday village to another-all adorned with shimmering lights and offering distinctively flavored mulled wine, remember that Vienna, Austria is truly one of the best Christmas destinations Europe has to offer. Here’s to a merry and bright holiday season in this famous European destination!

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Dresden, Germany

Dresden, Germany

Dresden, Germany, is a spectacle to behold during the festive season. As one of the absolute best Christmas cities in Europe, it provides an experience that is second to none.

Famed for its Striezelmarkt – Germany’s oldest Christmas market – Dresden transforms into a real-life winter wonderland every year come December. The aroma of Glühwein blends with the scent of gingerbread and roasted almonds, creating an intoxicating holiday atmosphere.

The heart of Dresden’s Christmas celebration is indeed the Striezelmarkt. Here you can marvel at the world’s tallest nutcracker and explore over 230 festively decorated stalls selling gifts from traditional wooden crafts to local food specialties.

This European Christmas destination carries such a charm that you can’t help but be swept up in its festive spirit. If you’re wondering about the best places in Europe to spend Christmas, give thought to Dresden’s incredible Stollen Festival.

Stollen, a fruit bread dusted with icing sugar and packed with sweet dried fruits and marzipan, is what put Dresden on the map for many holiday travellers. The locals take such pride in their stollen that they host an annual parade featuring a giant four-tonne version made by bakers across the city.

The city also boasts numerous other markets scattered throughout, each one offering something unique – from whimsical fairy-tale themes to medieval inspired huts serving hearty fare like spiced wine and bratwursts. Trust me; this place isn’t just one of your run-of-the-mill European Christmas destinations – it’s arguably among one of the best European destinations for Christmas!

But don’t just take my word for it; visit Dresden yourself this holiday season! With its enchanting markets set against beautifully illuminated baroque architecture and traditions steeped in history, it truly tops any list as one of the best destinations in Europe for Christmas!

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia

As the chill of winter begins to blanket the land, and the first sprinkling of snow graces the cobblestone streets, there’s no denying that Tallinn, Estonia has become one of the best European Christmas destinations. The city’s medieval old town is transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland, making it one of the best places in Europe to spend Christmas.

Tallinn’s festive season kicks off with an annual tree lighting ceremony at its heart – Raekoja Plats. This square has seen a Christmas tree erected in its honor since 1441, making this one of the longest-standing Yuletide traditions in Europe.

As you stroll through its fairy-tale-like alleys draped in twinkling lights and vibrant decorations, you can’t help but feel joyous warmth despite the nipping Baltic cold. One cannot discuss Christmas in Tallinn without mentioning its legendary Christmas Market – a classic feature highlighting why Tallinn ranks highly among best European destinations for Christmas.

The market teems with stalls selling a plethora of festive treats from mulled wine and gingerbread cookies to hand-crafted gifts and traditional Estonian holiday ornaments. You may even catch sight of Santa Claus himself, delighting children with presents as they ride on the market’s charming carousel.

For lovers of culture looking for immersion into local traditions during their yuletide voyage, Estonian Open Air Museum’s ‘Village Christmas’ is a must-visit event. It spectacularly showcases how this joyous festival was celebrated centuries ago by villagers.

This not just gives insight into Estonia’s rich heritage but also why it’s considered among best places for Christmas in Europe. As you wander through Tallinn during this magical time of year—past centuries-old churches and fortresses adorned with shimmering snow—it’s easy to see why it is one of the best destinations in Europe for Christmas; it truly captures your heart like few other cities can.

To conclude, Tallinn, with its enchanting charm, stunning decorations, and festive traditions, undeniably features among the best Christmas destinations in Europe. This wondrous city offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking a memorable Christmas journey in Europe.

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Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague – the city of a hundred spires. It undoubtedly ranks as one of the best Christmas cities in Europe. As December sweeps in, the whole city magically transforms into a mesmerizing Christmas wonderland.

Cobblestone streets are dusted with snow and fairy lights twinkle from every corner – it’s truly like stepping into a storybook! Wandering around Prague during Christmas is an unforgettable experience that can rival any other European Christmas destination.

The Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square host traditional Christmas markets where you can savor mouthwatering trdelník pastries and sip on warm honey wine or grog, all while shopping for unique Bohemian gifts. One of the best places in Europe for Christmas has to be Prague Castle, which offers stunning views over the city’s festive skyline.

At night, when its towers are lit up against the dark wintery sky, it’s truly breathtaking. Christmas in Europe wouldn’t be complete without attending a classical music concert and Prague has plenty of those during this season.

The churches and concert halls around town offer everything from organ concerts to chamber music performances. In Prague, you can experience all that is magical about spending Christmas in Europe: traditional markets filled with handmade treasures; historical architecture dressed up for the holidays; hearty food and warm drinks; enchanting caroling echoing through narrow alleys… It’s no doubt that this is one of the best European destinations for Christmas.

When contemplating where to enjoy unique European Yuletide traditions coupled with captivating beauty, don’t overlook this gem – Prague might just be your best place for Christmas in Europe! So while planning your winter getaway consider these magnificently festive cities as they could easily top your list of best European destinations for Christmastime merriment!

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Budapest, Hungary

Budapest Christmas Fair, Hungary

Everyone talks about the best places in Europe to spend Christmas, with recommendations sprawling across from France to Finland. But if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, Budapest, Hungary is the place to be. It’s often overlooked in favour of its Western counterparts but it truly is one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe.

As soon as December hits, Budapest transforms into a winter wonderland complete with twinkling lights and festive decorations adorning every corner of the city. The scent of traditional Hungarian pastries wafts through the air, adding an extra layer of warmth to those chilly European winter nights.

Budapest is famous for its Thermal Baths and what better way than to warm up after a day spent exploring one of the best European Christmas destinations? Just imagine relaxing in warm thermal waters while surrounded by snowflakes falling gently around you.

One can’t talk about Budapest during Christmas without mentioning their charming christmas markets; they are perhaps some of the best christmas villages in Europe. Few places can compete with Vörösmarty Square which comes alive as one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful Christmas Markets.

From unique handmade gifts to delicious food stalls selling everything from chimney cake covered in sugar crystals to hearty bowls of traditional Goulash soup – it has something for everyone! If you’re seeking for visual delights then look no further!

St Stephen’s Basilica forms a magnificent backdrop to an ice rink where children glide joyously on icy paths under twinkling night skies. It’s enchanting and gives off that magical vibe that easily makes it one of the best places for Christmas in Europe.

Christmas lights cruise on river Danube is another highlight not-to-be-missed! The view with all key landmarks lit against dark skies offers breathtaking views turning it into a yuletide spectacle which can easily compete with other best christmas cities in europe.

So if your holiday wish list includes experiencing a unique blend of tradition and modern festivities then Budapest, Hungary should be on your list of best European destinations for Christmas. This gem of a city with its hospitality and festive spirit offers an experience that’s sure to make your Christmas in Europe unforgettable.

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Brussels, Belgium

Christmas market in Brussels, Belgium

As we voyage further through the festive tapestry of Christmas in Europe, let’s make a stop in Brussels, Belgium. It’s undoubtedly one of the best places for Christmas in Europe, painting a perfect picture of an old-world charm married with modern cosmopolitan flair. The city positively hums with Yuletide spirit as it basks under a gentle dusting of snow.

The air buzzes with the sound of carols and merry chatter while your eyes feast on enchanting displays that adorn shop windows and streets alike. The Grand-Place, Brussels’ main square, is transformed into a dazzling spectacle with its majestic Christmas tree and vibrant light shows that dance across the ornate buildings.

Brussels can also claim to have some of the best European Christmas destinations within its folds. Each neighborhood has its own unique character; from classic narratives spun in traditional markets to avant-garde interpretations at contemporary stores and galleries.

In Brussels, you can find some of the best Christmas destinations Europe has to offer. And let’s not forget about food – Belgium is known for having one of the most sophisticated culinary scenes in Europe which becomes even more notable during Christmas time.

From decadent Belgian chocolates and speculoos cookies to hearty stews paired with world-renowned beers – this city is heaven for all food-lovers. In essence, when it comes to European Christmas destinations that pack culture, cuisine and festive cheer into their heartlands– Brussels definitely ranks as one of the best places in Europe for Christmas celebrations.

It’s an age-old destination wrapped up in contemporary trimmings – just like a well-presented gift under a beautifully adorned tree. We must always remember that among all our merry-making and indulgence – what makes these cities some of the best places in Europe to spend Christmas isn’t just their sparkle or splendor but their ability to bring people together during this magical season.

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Graz, Austria

Graz, Austria

As the holiday season approaches, Graz, Austria emerges as one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe. This enchanting city, draped in festive decorations and accentuated by a dusting of snow, embodies the quintessential European Christmas destination. In Graz, you’ll find one of the most magnificent Christmas markets on the main square.

The cheery atmosphere is infectious with stalls offering everything from traditional Austrian handicrafts to mouth-watering local delicacies like gingerbread and mulled wine. There’s even an ice nativity scene that adds to the magical ambiance of this European Christmas destination.

But it doesn’t stop there; one of Graz’s unique holiday attractions is its ice crib exhibition – an icy spectacle guaranteed to leave you awestruck. Imagine intricate nativity scenes masterfully carved into blocks of glistening ice—it’s truly a sight to behold.

Graz goes above and beyond when it comes to illuminating their city for the holiday season. Picture strolling through streets bathed in soft twinkle lights while carolers fill the air with yuletide songs – surely among the best places for Christmas in Europe.

When planning your visit to this best Christmas destination in Europe, don’t forget to explore Schlossberg or ‘Castle Hill.’ There’s a reason it’s among Europe’s most renowned spots during Christmastime—featuring perhaps one of the continent’s most spectacular views. A climb up offers a panoramic vista over Graz’s twinkling lights—a spellbinding sight that makes every visitor feel they’ve stepped into a real-life fairy tale.

From its delightful marketplaces brimming with tradition and cheer to festive lights that seem straight out of children’s storybook—Graz solidifies its position as one of Europe’s top destinations for celebrating Christmas. It truly is an embodiment of what many would consider the perfect place in Europe for Christmas.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, that Nordic treasure trove! When we talk about Christmas in Europe, it would be an oversight not to mention this Finnish capital.

Certainly one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe, Helsinki doubles as a winter wonderland when December rolls around. Wrapped in a blanket of pristine snow with twinkling fairy lights adorning its streets and parks, it’s as if the city itself morphs into a grand Christmas tree.

The festive ambiance is infectious and you can’t help but catch the yuletide bug. The Senate Square transforms into the St Thomas Christmas Market with over 120 stalls brimming with Finnish crafts, delicacies, and of course, mulled wine to ward off the chill.

Would you like to have a taste of traditional Finnish fare? Then make sure you sample joulutorttu (Christmas tarts) or the delicious gingerbread cookies that are a staple during this season.

And how could we forget Santa Claus? After all, Finland has long claimed to be his home.

Visit Santa’s Secret Forest – Joulukka where you can meet Santa himself! Indeed ranked among the best Christmas cities in Europe, Helsinki offers an authentic European Christmas experience that interweaves tradition with modernity.

It’s no wonder it’s recognized as one of the best places for Christmas in Europe. So pack your warmest coats and hats because a trip to this European winter haven ensures an unforgettable holiday experience!

If you’re hunting for unique European Christmas destinations or simply yearn for an old-fashioned holiday spirit amidst scenic winter landscapes then Helsinki should most definitely be on your list! It truly is one of the best places in Europe for Christmas; one where traditional festivities meet wintery charm!

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Rovaniemi, Lapland

Rovaniemi, Lapland

Rovaniemi, nestled in the heart of Lapland, is one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe. This magical place – also touted as the official hometown of Santa Claus – is a pure embodiment of all things Christmas.

Picture a serene, snowy landscape sprinkled with pine trees, bustling reindeer farms, and charming log cabins that seem straight out of a storybook. It’s no wonder many consider it the best place in Europe for Christmas.

Given its unique geographical location just at the Arctic circle’s edge, Rovaniemi offers an unforgettable winter experience. If you are lucky enough – and up for braving chilly nights – you may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights streaking across the sky.

One can’t talk about Christmas in Europe without mentioning Santa Claus Village; it’s one of Rovaniemi’s star attractions and quite possibly one of the best European destinations for Christmas. This amusement park is brimming with holiday cheer throughout December; from meeting Santa himself to sending postcards from his post office – yes, they even get a special Arctic Circle postmark!

Reindeer sleigh rides are another must-try experience when spending your yuletide season here; imagine being pulled along snow-covered trails by these iconic creatures under an eternally twilight sky – it’s certainly an image that’s hard to forget! If you’re looking for someplace truly special to spend your holidays this year then consider Rovaniemi.

It is unquestionably one among those best European Christmas destinations that effortlessly combines tradition with unique experiences – generously offering visitors an authentic peek into Finnish Lapland’s culture while ensuring their festive spirits stay high! Whether it’s sipping hot berry juice next to a roaring bonfire or exploring frost-laden forests on snowshoes or husky sleds, every moment spent in Rovaniemi feels like stepping into your very own Christmas card scene.

So if you’re asking where the best places for Christmas in Europe are, Rovaniemi should certainly be on your list. It’s an enchanting winter wonderland that offers the best of European Christmas destinations and promises a holiday experience you’ll cherish forever.

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Stockholm, Sweden

Christmas in Europe, Stockholm, Sweden

Next on our magical journey to discover the best European destinations for Christmas, we find ourselves in Stockholm, Sweden. If you’re looking for the best places in Europe to spend Christmas, you need not look further than the snowy landscapes and fairy-lit streets of Stockholm. The atmosphere is straight out of a fairytale, with charming wooden huts serving sweet festive delicacies and shops teeming with unique Christmas gifts.

Now let me tell you about the Stortorget Christmas market in Gamla Stan. It’s the epitome of European Christmas destinations.

The oldest square in Stockholm transforms into a bustling marketplace as temperatures drop. You’ll discover an array of Swedish handicrafts and traditional delicacies that are sure to warm both your heart and belly.

Not many places can compete with this picturesque market when it comes to being one of the best destinations in Europe for Christmas. When you think about celebrating a quintessential European Christmastime, ice-skating inevitably comes to mind.

And where better than Kungsträdgården? It’s one of Stockholm’s prime locations during winter; an ice-rink set against grand historical structures decked up festively – talk about visual splendour!

A visit to Skansen, an open-air museum and zoo located on Djurgården Island, is another must-do activity during your Christmas Europe trip. Here you can learn about Swedish traditions during Jul (Christmas) while enjoying merry performances by folk dance groups.

Stockholm earns its place as one of the top-rated best European Christmas destinations by offering experiences that perfectly blend tradition with modernity, creating truly unforgettable memories amidst its beautiful winter ambiance. So if you’re seeking out some of the best places for Christmas in Europe where fairy tales come alive amidst snow-capped scenery and illuminating festivities engulf every corner; then Stockholm is calling your name!

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Bruges, Belgium

Christmas in Europe, Bruges, Belgium

Known as the Venice of the North, this charming Belgian city is arguably one of the best places in Europe to spend Christmas.

This city’s stunning medieval architecture and its many canals are themselves a joy to behold, but during Christmas, they take on an almost magical ambiance. Bruges transforms into a fairy-tale land from late November through early January.

The historic city center becomes a grand spectacle of lights and decorations. The local Christmas market is one of the best European destinations for Christmas shopping you can find anywhere- it’s a great place to find artisan crafts or traditional Belgian chocolates that make perfect gifts.

Believe me when I say that there’s nothing quite like wandering through Bruges‘ cobblestone streets lined with glistening ice sculptures and festive decor. It feels like stepping into a traditional European Christmas card scene!

You’re likely to stumble upon street musicians playing carols, adding an extra dose of heartwarming charm. Additionally, you can experience unique holiday traditions specific to Belgium which make this one of the best European Christmas destinations.

There’s the tradition of ‘Waffles Day’ on December 26th where everyone enjoys sumptuously sweet Belgian waffles — just imagine biting into a warm waffle while watching snowflakes fall around you! And let’s not forget about the food!

Belgians are famed for their culinary delights such as mussels, fries (the true originators), and beer; all soul-warming treats perfect for brisk winter evenings. Bruges is undoubtedly one of the best places in Europe for Christmas if you’re seeking quintessential European charm coupled with unforgettable holiday festivities—a true gem among European Christmas destinations.

Paris, France

Christmas in Europe, Paris, France

Ah, Paris. Known as the city of love, it becomes even more magical during Christmas.

With the lights shimmering on the Seine and a dusting of snow on cobblestone streets, it’s like walking into a storybook. It might be considered one of the best European destinations for Christmas, but Paris is more than just a destination; it’s an experience.

Just imagine strolling down Champs Elysées amidst sparkling fairy lights or marveling at the grandeur of Notre Dame adorned with festive decorations. The Eiffel Tower is not only an iconic symbol of France but also becomes a radiant beacon during this festive period.

Now consider Paris’ Christmas markets, considered some of the best Christmas villages in Europe. They’re scattered around the city, and each has its own unique charm.

Whether you’re warming yourself with vin chaud (mulled wine) at La Défense or finding unique artisanal gifts at Saint-Germain-des-Prés market, you’re bound to feel that warm holiday spirit wrap around you like your favorite winter scarf. Paris genuinely embodies what we mean when we talk about Christmas in Europe – tradition mixed with modern allure.

From classic holiday concerts in beautiful cathedrals to special exhibits in renowned museums such as Louvre or Musée d’Orsay, there’s no shortage of cultural experiences either. So whether you’re gazing up at dazzling window displays on Boulevard Haussmann or ice-skating under twinkling stars at Trocadéro rink overlooking Eiffel Tower – there’s little doubt why Paris often tops the list as one of the best places in Europe for Christmas.

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Experience the enchantment of the holiday season with a tour of the best Christmas markets in Europe. From the festive allure of Germany's Nuremberg to the timeless charm of Vienna's markets, explore the magical traditions and festive cheer that epitomize European Christmas celebrations.
About me

About Me

Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue.

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

25 thoughts on “15 Best Destinations for Christmas in Europe”

  1. Hi, thank you for the article. We are spending Christmas and NY’s in Europe this year and heard a lot of towns actually close down on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and similarly for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. What cities/towns would you suggest visiting in Germany, Austria that will likely be open for us to experience new cultural traditions for a family of 5 with girls ages, 2, 4, and 6? Thanks again!

    • Hi Christina! Thanks for dropping by. Germany, I suggest Berlin and Munich for some culture, history, and tradition for the kids. These are really family-friendly cities in Germany, as well! As for Austria, Vienna and Salzburg are the ones that come up on top of my head. All of these cities I mentioned also have really good Christmas markets which the kids will enjoy and as well nice NYE displays. I hope you guys enjoy Germany and Austria! 🙂

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