Christmas in Europe is pure magic! Twinkling lights along quaint cobblestone lanes. A Christmas fair of traditional holiday huts in a stunning setting. Mulled wine, sizzling sausages and gingerbread cookies galore.
We absolutely love spending the winter holidays in Europe. In our extensive travels over the past decade, have discovered many of the Best European Christmas Destinations!
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Best Christmas Destinations in Europe
Travelers deciding where to spend Christmas in Europe have ample options. Our list of the Best Places To Visit in Europe in December includes a wide range of delightful destinations.
We also share the reasons we believe they are the Top European Cities in Winter. Our European Christmas Market Guide is designed to inspire winter wanderlust – and we which places deliver on that magical atmosphere.
Top Tip: Need a little guidance for your trip? Read our Top Tips for Planning a Vacation to Europe.
18 Best Places To Spend Christmas in Europe
This list includes our top picks for the prime places to visit in Europe in December for the holidays. Later in this post, we share our honest travel tips and answer commonly asked questions. Now, let’s reveal the Best Destinations in Europe for Christmas!
#1 ZAGREB, CROATIA
Many people don’t think of Croatia as a winter destination, but in our experience, Zagreb is one of the best European cities for Christmas.
Located inland from the country’s famous coastline, Zagreb is both historic and modern – and their Christmas market, called Zagreb Advent, is the city’s biggest event.
Why Zagreb is a Best European Christmas Destination
The Zagreb Advent Festival won the title of ‘Best Christmas in Europe’ for three straight years (2016, 2017 and 2018).
Despite this recognition, Advent in Zagreb is often overlooked by travelers in favor of more famous Christmas markets in Europe.
Honestly, we had our reservations about how it would stack up, but we were blown away by their holiday festival.
The popular Christmas markets at Advent Zagreb are spread out across the city – occupying large squares, narrow lanes and gorgeous parks. Each area has its own festive theme.
So couples seeking romantic Christmas corners and families searching for kid-friendly Xmas activities can all find what they’re looking for.
From a marvelous ice skating rink to fantastic food to steaming mulled wine, Zagreb offers a magical Christmas experience for one and all!
#2 BARCELONA, SPAIN
Barcelona is no stranger to visitors. The sprawling seaside metropolis is well-known for its extraordinary architecture, characteristic Old Town and undeniably delicious tapas.
At Christmastime, there are far fewer tourists and the city’s greatest sights are draped in shimmering lights as local residents partake in peculiar holiday traditions.
Why Barcelona is a Top European City to Visit in December
Barcelona attracts hordes of tourists all summer long – so it wasn’t the first place to spring to mind when we were considering where to go in Europe for Christmas. What first enticed us, however, was the weather.
Unlike other places to go in Europe for Christmas, Barcelona winters are mild and can actually be quite sunny.
Considering the pleasant weather and smaller crowds, we determined Christmas in Barcelona to be an excellent choice. We enjoyed strolling down the festively decorated streets while perusing the Christmas market stalls and Nativity scenes.
Barcelona is one of the best places in Europe for quirky Christmas traditions. We were thoroughly amused by the long-standing Barcelona Christmas customs of Caga Tio, the smiling log that poos gifts for children, and the Caganer, a bewildering Nativity figurine.
Top Tip: Spending the Holidays in Spain? Great choice! Also check out our guide to Christmas in Madrid.
#3 KRAKOW, POLAND
We believe Krakow is a fascinating city to visit any time of year – and especially so during the holiday season.
Filled with historic sights from a storied past, Krakow is a treasure trove of opulent architecture and comfort cuisine. Many of the Top Things To Do in Krakow are nestled in the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, which is exactly where visitors will find their festive winter fair.
Why Krakow is One of the Best Winter Holiday Destinations in Europe
Walking into the Krakow Christmas Market is like stepping back in time. Traditional Christmas huts cluster around the Renaissance era Cloth Hall, while a soaring Christmas tree stands below the tower of St. Mary’s Basilica.
Horse-and-carriages line the market perimeter and the sound of Christmas carols can be heard from the nearby St. Adalbert’s Church.
While sausages and pierogis (of which there are plenty) make our list of must-eat festive Polish food, we believe the best savory snack at the Krakow Holiday Market is oscypek. This smoked sheep milk cheese that is grilled over hot coals and it’s simply amazing!
Lucky visitors, like us, will get to experience the Krakow Christmas Fair with a light dusting of snow. It’s a perfect compliment to mulled wine or a traditional Polish hot beer. The entire scene resembles a snow globe – which is why Krakow is one of the Best European Destinations for Christmas!
#4 FRANKFURT, GERMANY
We were absolutely charmed by the charismatic Frankfurt Old Town that is tucked below the soaring skyscrapers.
During December, Frankfurt adheres to an age-old tradition – and puts on one of the best German Christmas Markets in Europe!
Why Frankfurt is a Top Place to Visit in Europe for Christmas
For a quintessential Christmas celebration in Europe, there actually may be no better place than the Frankfurt Christmas Market!
We were positively dazzled by the festivities in Romerberg, the town hall square. Classic, wooden huts are watched over by a 100-foot-tall Christmas tree. German sausages sizzle over grills and Gluhwein is served piping hot in special commemorative mugs.
The jolly festiveness also stretches down picturesque lanes, into inconspicuous courtyards and on top of decorated rooftops.
We found the unique European Christmas markets to be fascinating to explore – and easily incorporated the merriment into our Frankfurt Sightseeing.
Need another reason Frankfurt ranks as one of the best places to go in Europe for Christmas? It’s fairly easy to get there. There are heaps of international flights and long-distance trains to Frankfurt year-round.
#5 PARIS, FRANCE
Iconic sights, world-renowned art, grand architecture and excellent gastronomy are just a few reasons why Paris, France is one of the most popular destinations in the world.
The city is crammed with top attractions and quaint cafes, but curious travelers can easily get off the beaten path. While not often touted as one of the top European cities for Christmas, we absolutely love Paris in wintertime!
Why Paris is an Ideal Europe Destinations in December
Oui, oui. Paris is always a good idea…especially for the holidays! The City of Light is particularly beautiful dressed in its holiday best.
Paris Christmas Markets are set up in parks and squares all around the city, with the largest taking place in the Tuileries Garden near the Louvre. In addition to the 100 Swiss-style chalets selling bric-a-brac and tasty fare, the market features an ice-skating rink and carnival rides.
The tantalizing Christmas spirit, however, is felt all throughout Paris. Classic Parisian shopping streets, like Rue Montorgueil, feature festive decorations and shops specializing is classic French Christmas cuisine.
Paris shopping malls, like Galeries Lafayette, and secret shopping passages, like Galerie Vivienne, are perfect places to pick up presents while emersed in a joyous atmosphere.
While Paris is one of the best Christmas locations in Europe, we love visiting Paris in December for one more reason: fewer fellow tourists.
You will, of course, still have plenty of company, but lines to major attractions are shorter and costs drop, as well, making it much easier to plan your Paris Itinerary.
#6 LONDON, ENGLAND
London is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world – Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge, to name just a few!
The contemporary city is both stylish and classic. We have celebrated Christmas in London on several occasions and adore its festive appeal.
Why London is the Best Place to Go for Christmas
There are many Christmas Markets in England, but none quite compare to the legendary London events.
From the traditional scene on Leicester Square to the festive vibe at Southbank to the over-the-top Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, the Christmas Markets in London aim to please!
Shopping, which is often included in London Itineraries, is a huge holiday event in the city. Regent Street, the most famous London shopping street, features lavish window displays and some of the most impressive Christmas light installations anywhere in the world.
Churches in London – like Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral – host holiday choir concerts and memorable Christmas masses.
Theaters perform Christmas classics and entertaining pantomimes. And, after a full day of sightseeing, visitors can cozy up in a classic English pub near a fireplace. Does it get any more Christmassy than that?
Top Tip: The German Christmas Market in Birmingham is incredibly festive and just an hour and a half away by train!
#7 AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
With its gorgeous canals and gabled houses, Amsterdam is an utterly appealing place to visit. We have been lured to the city numerous times in different seasons and always delight in Touring Amsterdam on Foot.
The historic city offers countless sights – and Amsterdam’s iconic architecture is even more extraordinary at Christmastime.
Why Amsterdam is One of our Favorite Places to Spend Christmas
What we love about Christmas in the Netherlands is the easy-going atmosphere, pop up weekend Christmas markets, classy decorations and specialty treats. Hello, Oliebollen!
The Dutch are not particularly religious people, so Christmas in Amsterdam is a little different from other European destinations. Understated rather than over-the-top, the city still simmers with a festive vibe.
Unlike some Christmas cities in Europe that celebrate with month-long events, many Amsterdam events are held for only one weekend. In fact, one of the very best Christmas markets in the Netherlands isn’t in Amsterdam, but in nearby Haarlem.
That said, there are a few season-long holiday affairs, like ice skating on Museumplein, the impressive Dam Square Christmas Tree and the famous Amsterdam Light Festival along the canals.
Another reason we enjoy Amsterdam over the holidays is it’s relatively easy to travel to destinations around the country.
Visitors can hop on a bus to experience different fairs – from the Royal Christmas Fair in The Hague to community festivals (like the Christmas Markets near Nijmegen) that are uniquely Dutch!
#8 LISBON, PORTUGAL
Lisbon is a city that has soul. Spread over seven hills, Lisbon features classic architecture, unique neighborhoods and a distinct culture. Rooted in history, the Top Things To Do in Lisbon are timeless.
For checklist travelers, the city can fall flat, but for those who like to wander, Lisbon is illustrious. Honestly, our very first visit to the city in summertime left us frustrated, but our trip to Lisbon at Christmas completely captured our hearts.
Why Lisbon is One of the Best European Cities to Visit at Christmas
Compared to other Christmastime events in Europe, Lisbon at Christmas is an understated affair.
Rather than popping up Christmas markets on every corner of the city, Lisbon ushers in the holiday spirit with just a few markets, many festive lights, ornate Nativity scenes and classic meals.
Not to be missed are the choir concerts that take place in the most beautiful Lisbon Churches on the days leading up to Christmas.
Most Portuguese people are Catholic – and Christmas is celebrated with religious traditions, not commercial indulgences.
The holidays in Portugal are a time to spend with family, friends, food and faith. Christmas dinner is a simple meal of bacalhau (cod), cabbage, eggs and potatoes. Then, nearly everyone in Lisbon goes to midnight mass on Christmas Eve.
That said, there is the fun Wonderland Lisboa event at Eduardo VII Park, the Rossio Christmas Market in Baixa and festive decorations on Praca do Comercio. Here visitors will find huts selling Portugal’s favorite Christmas drink, Ginjinha.
Pedestrian only Rua Augusta is warmly lit up in the glow of Christmas stars and street performers play holiday tunes. Those who keep an eye on the rattling Lisbon trams just might catch a glimpse of Santa Claus driving down the tracks!
#9 BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Budapest is a city that has a little bit of something for everyone: history, monuments, culture, baths and oh so many bars.
The two sides of the city – Buda and Pest – are fun to explore by day…and always entertaining at night. With iconic sights and a thriving Hungarian Craft Beer scene, Budapest is a top European destination any time of year.
Why Budapest is One of the Best Cities to See at Christmas
Budapest is always lively, but it sparkles brightly in December. The city indulges visitors with Christmas festivities – from beautiful markets to holiday concerts to epic New Year’s Eve bashes.
In fact, the Budapest Advent Basilica was voted the number one Christmas Market in 2019, 2021, 2023 and again in 2024 by European Best Destinations!
As one of the top European cities at Christmas, Budapest features multiple festive events. Of the many holiday markets that dot the cityscape, the two biggest are at Vorosmarty Square and in the plaza at St. Stephen’s Basilica.
From wooden stalls, vendors sell traditional gifts, handmade crafts and heavenly holiday fare. Our favorite Hungarian winter dishes are Goulash and Langos (a fried bread topped with sour cream and cheese).
The Christmas fairs aren’t the only way to celebrate the season in Budapest. Visitors can attend the Budapest Nutcracker Ballet at the grand Opera House, ride the Christmas Light Tram and go ice skating in Budapest City Park.
For a unique Hungarian winter experience, travelers can ward off the chilly weather by immersing themselves in the outdoor hot springs at Szechenyi Baths! With so much to see and do, visitors will have no problem filling a Budapest Itinerary for a long weekend.
#10 DUSSELDORF, GERMANY
Dusseldorf may not be considered by many as a top European destination, but the underrated German city has quite a few surprises in store for tourists.
Known for their local beer – called Altbier – and the dizzying number of bars to drink it in, Dusseldorf is a fun weekend retreat.
In addition to imbibing, popular Dusseldorf Things To Do include visiting historic sites, trying classic eats, shopping and during the holidays, attending the wonderful Christmas market!
Why Dusseldorf is a Great Place to Spend Christmas in Europe
The Dusseldorf Christmas Market is actually one of the best in Europe! The German Xmas celebration is marked by seven distinct markets, each featuring a different theme.
Visitors are lured from one to the next by the glow of twinkling lights and the sounds of the season. Wandering the short distance between the merry zones is enhanced with a nip of the local liquor, Killepitsch.
Like all the best German Christmas markets, the savory holiday fare is an enticing element. Indulging in at least one sausage is a must, but we highly recommend tucking into a sour cream-slathered reibekuchen and an amazingly crispy flammkuchen!
Top activities during December are ice skating and riding the giant Ferris wheel. Those who take a whirl are treated to 360-degree views that stretch over the Rhine River and brightly lit market squares.
#11 PRAGUE, CZECHIA
Prague is a city that is as stunning up close as it is far away. Prague’s Gothic architecture in the preserved Old Town is something straight out of children’s fables.
Taking in the sights – like Prague Castle, Charles Bridge and famous Astronomical Clock – can easily take visitors back in time. Whether viewing the area from a famous viewpoint or sauntering through narrow lanes, the sensational city is atmospheric.
Why Prague is Ideal for European Christmas Market Breaks
We believe Prague is one of the most enchanting cities in Europe. However, shimmering decorations and the sheer festiveness take it up a notch to absolutely captivating.
The holiday season is celebrated in Prague with two main Christmas markets – one on Old Town Square and one in Wenceslas Square.
Getting a taste of the seasonal fare tops our list of things to do at the holiday fairs. Our favorite Prague wintertime food is Prazska Sunka – ham that is slow roasted on a spit to a sublime, succulent finish.
We follow up the savory meal with something sweet. The most famous confection is Trdelnik, or Chimney Cake – a must-try at Prague Christmas markets. Of course, nothing goes better with Czech food than Czech beer! We suggest going beyond the well-known brands and seek out Craft Beer in Prague.
#12 VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Vienna is often ranked as one of the most beautiful cities in the world – and it’s hard to argue. The elegant area is adorned with grandiose museums, ornate churches, perfectly planned gardens and royal palaces.
Vienna’s classy coffee houses are so much a part of the culture, they have been added to the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Why Vienna is One of the Top Christmas Destinations in Europe
The Vienna, Austria Christmas Market is legendary. The event dates to the Middle Ages when local residents held the very first December Market. In the winter, nearly every square in Vienna is transformed into a Christmas fairyland.
The Vienna Christmas Market is on our list of Christmassy places to visit in 2024. Knowing how attractive the city is from previous visits, we can only imagine that it truly shines at Christmastime!
Budget conscious travelers might be wary of visiting a destination that is notoriously expensive. However, with pre-planning and our list of Free Things To Do in Vienna, it’s possible to plan an affordable trip!
While you’re at it, we can highly recommend traveling to Graz as well. They go all out with their wonderful Advent Graz Festival!
#13 STRASBOURG, FRANCE
France’s Alsace region, which lies along the German border, is marked with idyllic towns of half-timbered houses and hillside vineyards. Although Strasbourg is the region’s largest city, it often feels like a magical village with an enormous cathedral.
Why Strasbourg is a Top Place to Visit in Europe for Christmas
The Marche de Noel a Strasbourg – regularly touted as one of the best Christmas markets in the world – encircles the Cathedral and winds down cobbled lanes. It is one of the oldest and longest-running Christmas Markets in Europe, earning Strasbourg the nickname, Capital of Christmas.
Featuring a radiant display of lights and more than 300 traditional stalls, some visitors opt to explore via a private tour. However you decide to take it all in, the spectacular Strasbourg Christkindelsmarik promises to be an unforgettable Christmas event.
#14 LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA
Ljubljana is a fairytale city, complete with dragons, a hill-topping castle and a meandering river. The pedestrian-only Ljubljana Old Town beckons visitors with undeniable charm and the walkable city is packed with fun things to do.
The cobblestone lanes are lined with cafes, boutiques and draped in striking architecture. What could possibly make this scene more magical? An insanely beautiful European Christmas Market, of course!
Why Ljubljana is a Top European Winter Holiday Destination
The Ljubljana city center is truly postcard-perfect. We’ve experienced it in every season, and are always amazed by how magnificent it is.
The Ljubljana Festive Fair takes place in multiple locations with loads of lights decorating the entire town center and dominating the main Prešeren Square.
The December Christmas event is highlighted by musical concerts, a St. Nicholas parade and a firework display to celebrate the New Year.
#15 EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND
Edinburgh is a magical Medieval city with a grand main throughfare and lavish royal palace. The city bustles with tourists in the summer months as they take in the historic sights, climb to scenic viewpoints and feast on Classic Scottish Fare. However, there are compelling reasons to visit Edinburgh in the wintertime, too!
Why Edinburgh is One of the Best Cities at Christmastime
The Old Town and New Town are listed together as a World Heritage Site and they are even more beautiful draped in twinkling lights. However, the real reason Edinburgh is the perfect Christmas destination is for the holiday festivals.
Known for its iconic galas that take place throughout the year (the summertime Fringe being the most popular), the Edinburgh Christmas Festival is a celebration that truly shines on it’s own.
The dark and cold winter season in Edinburgh is marked by a glowing holiday market in Princes Street Gardens, a classy Christmas Tree at The Dome and an outdoor ice-skating rink on George Street.
Plus, top attractions that should be on every Edinburgh Itinerary – like the Castle, Botanic Gardens and Royal Boat Britannia – are all decked out for the holidays. With an abundance of jolliness, it’s clear to see why Edinburgh consistently ranks as one of the ‘Best Christmas Destinations Europe’!
Travelers may also want to stick around for the multi-day New Year Hogmanay Festival. The wild celebrations make Edinburgh one of the Amazing Places to Spend NYE!
#16 DRESDEN, GERMANY
Dresden is often passed over, but we think it is one of Europe’s hidden gems. Although the city was sadly destroyed and the end of World War II, it was painstakingly pieced back together to its original splendor.
The sights in the historic center can be toured in a single day, but we highly recommend spending at least 3 Days in Dresden and navigating your way to nearby castles, vineyards and towns.
Why Dresden is a Great Place to Visit in Europe at Christmas
Dresden is an absolute delight during the holiday season. Not only does the city host one of the largest Christmas markets in Germany, but many claim that it’s the oldest Christmas market in the world (tracing back to 1434).
The highlight of visiting Dresden in December is the Striezelmarkt Christmas Market, which takes place in Altmarkt Square. However, it is one of several holiday season bazaars in the city.
Shoppers can find traditional and unique wares at the markets on Prager Strasse, Frauenkirche, and Neumarkt. The Augustus Market in Neustadt offers a cheerful place to stroll, and couples can cozy up at the Romantic Christmas Market.
Regardless of which markets you attend, eating Dresden Christmas Cake is a must. Dresden Stollen is a dense, spiced fruit cake that originated sometime in the 1400s…and while it’s not particularly to our liking, it’s tradition!
With the multitude of markets, copious amounts of gluhwein and legendary cake, it’s easy to see why many people rank Dresden as the Best European City for Christmas!
# 17 BATH, ENGLAND
Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage City, is remarkable from every vantage point. Marked with elegant architecture and surrounded by rolling green hills, Bath is quintessentially English.
The top tourist attraction is the ancient Roman Bathing Complex – but there are actually many great Things To Do in Bath, UK. Within easy reach of London – it’s also well connected to Bristol, Stonehenge and the Cotswolds.
Why Bath is a Best in Europe Christmas Destination
When we heard a fellow traveler touting that Bath was the best Christmas destination in Europe, we had to go see for ourselves!
During our extended stay pet sitting, we completely fell for the area – and were absolutely enamored by the Bath Christmas Market.
The Christmas Market in Bath is hosted in the city center, with huts situated around the famous Bath Abbey and stretching out down cobblestone lanes in all directions.
Vendors sell unique goods and handmade wares – and many locals visit to shop for exceptional Christmas gifts.
The old Bath city center is decorated in dazzling lights and a towering tree stands between the Roman Baths and the Abbey. It is as Merry as Christmas can get!
While the festival alone is enough to entice a visit, there is one more reason it’s one of the best Christmas places in Europe: Thermal Baths.
Before spending an evening at the holiday market in brisk weather, guests can soak in one of the iconic hot thermal baths. Not a bad way to spend Christmas, right?
#18 FLORENCE, ITALY
Florence, Italy is an absolutely magnificent European city. Home of The Renaissance, The David and a dizzying number of gelato shops, it’s easy to understand why visitors swoon.
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Florence makes an ideal base for exploring other destinations in the region – like stunning Siena, historic San Gimignano, lovely Lucca and the world-famous Leaning Tower in Pisa.
Why Florence is One of the Prime Places for Christmas
We believe that Florence is an ideal winter destination – especially for travelers like us, who prefer mild weather and avoiding crowds.
It rarely gets cold enough to snow and the long lines to enter museums and attractions practically disappear during the winter months, making Florence Sightseeing all the merrier!
Florence – and it’s many churches – are festooned in lights, garland and other festive décor during the holiday season.
Another reason why Florence is the best place to spend winter in Europe is the city’s signature holiday market: Weihnachtsmarkt Santa Croce.
The German-style Christmas fair – complete with bratwursts, pretzels and Bavarian beer – occupies the Santa Croce Piazza in front of the beautiful basilica.
Illuminated Christmas trees stand in the city’s best squares – including Piazzale Michelangelo, Piazza di San Firenze and Piazza del Duomo (where there is also a life-size Nativity scene).
In Piazza da Basso visitors can enjoy plenty of holiday fun at the Ice Village, where there is a skating rink and Ferris wheel. Buon Natale!
Christmas in Europe: Best Places Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version marked with our top picks for the best places in Europe to Visit During Christmas.
More Europe Best Christmas Destinations
We’ve shared our list of the best cities for Christmas in Europe, but if you are still trying to decide where to celebrate Christmas in Europe, we have a few more ideas.
Christmas Market Tours Europe
If planning all the details of where to go for Christmas in Europe is proving to be too stressful, consider joining one of the organized European Christmas Tours. With a set itinerary – and included transportation – to some of the best Christmas villages in Europe, you can sit back and enjoy the festivities!
River Cruise Trips to Christmas Markets in Europe
Cruising through Europe on a riverboat is one of the best ways to experience the continent. We took a European river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest in the autumn – and had an absolute blast!
If you are looking for the Best European Christmas Vacations that include everything, we highly recommend checking out a Christmas-themed river cruise.
Two of the popular Christmas cruises – that visit some of the finest Christmas cities in Europe – are a Rhine River Cruise (destinations include Strasbourg, Cologne and Amsterdam) and the Danube River Cruise (with stops in Germany, Austria and Hungary).
Create Your Own Christmas in Europe Itinerary
If traveling in a group is not your style, you can create your own itinerary to the best European Christmas cities. Travel by bus or train to multiple Christmas fairs in Europe. We recommend booking accommodations in advance – as hotels in many Christmas market cities also fill up quickly!
Here are our recommended multi-city Europe Christmas Itinerary suggestions.
- London, Paris, Amsterdam
- Prague, Vienna, Budapest
- Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon
- Zagreb, Ljubljana, Salzburg
- Krakow, Dresden, Frankfurt
- Paris, Strasbourg, Basel
- London, Paris, Rome
European Ski Resorts at Christmas Time
For those who want to go skiing for Christmas, Europe is also a top destination. In fact, if you are simply looking for a place that is guaranteed to have snow during the holidays, then a ski resort might be the perfect place in Europe to spend Christmas for you!
St. Moritz, Switzerland is a luxury destination in Europe for Christmas. Not only does the alpine resort offer world class skiing, but it hosts a posh Christmas market.
The Italian Dolomites are another one of the best places to visit in Europe during Christmas. Numerous ski resorts are nestled in the mountains and the small villages host quaint and charming markets.
The Ounasvaara Ski Resort in Rovaniemi, Finland is a top destination for festive family fun. That’s because it’s not far from Santa Claus Village, one of the absolute best Christmas towns in Europe!
Top Tips For Christmas Trip to Europe & FAQs
Once you pick your best place to celebrate Christmas in Europe, we have some advice and answers to commonly asked questions.
When Does Europe Celebrate Christmas?
Before planning Christmas travel to Europe, it’s essential to check the dates! Most European countries align Christmas celebrations according to the religious Advent calendar; but continue on until the Epiphany.
Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and ends on Christmas Day. The Epiphany, also known as Three Kings’ Day, is celebrated on January 6, twelve days after Christmas.
That said, with the ever-growing popularity of Christmas fairs, many European cities start to celebrate the last week of November.
However, German Christmas markets usually close before Christmas Day, yet some of the Xmas markets in London begin as early as the second week of November.
How Does Europe Celebrate Christmas Day?
Christmas Day is an official holiday and people generally celebrate at home with family. Almost all Europe Christmas celebrations are highlighted by a big meal on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
In predominately Catholic countries – like Italy, Portugal, Croatia and Spain – families to go Christmas mass together, usually midnight on Christmas Eve.
Pro Tip: We think European Christmas masses are especially beautiful, as they are often accompanied by the local choir. Christmas Eve mass at Notre Dame in Paris was especially memorable!
Where To Spend Christmas Day in Europe?
Christmas Day in Europe tends to be very quiet. Almost all shops, restaurants, Christmas fairs and attractions are closed. However, some major tourist sights stay open, like the Eiffel Tower.
As we are usually staying in an Airbnb or Housesitting over the holidays, we make sure to plan Christmas dinner ahead of time. Those who want to dine out on Christmas Day should make reservations in advance.
What is The Weather Like in Europe For December?
Most of the European continent has cold winters – especially in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. However, the weather is more temperate in places like Portugal, Spain, Italy and Croatia. London winters tend to be fairly mild, but cloudy with a chance of rain.
Will there be Snow at Christmas in Europe?
Whether or not you will have a White Christmas in Europe depends largely on where you go. It is highly unlikely to have a snowy Christmas in Lisbon or Barcelona. From our list, the most likely places for snow on Christmas in Europe are in Ljubljana, Prague or Vienna.
What to Buy at European Christmas Markets?
The cities on our list of Best Christmas European Destinations all have one thing in common: Spectacular Christmas Markets!
One thing many holiday travelers wonder is: What do you buy? Although many of the wares at the various markets are the same, each place is known for certain items specific to the region.
In Ljubljana, mittens and hats are top products for sale. In Frankfurt, traditional wooden toys are popular items to buy. Almost every fair has a unique Christmas ornament or figurine – like the Licitar Hearts in Zagreb or the Caganer in Barcelona.
Of course, visiting any Christmas market is not complete without trying the local fare. Sausages are popular almost everywhere, but make sure to try the local style. Hot spiced wine is also prevalent, although, each region has their own twist on the classic holiday beverage.
Peruse our guides to Unique Travel Presents and Useful Travel Gifts!
How Expensive are European Christmas Destinations?
Due to the increased popularity of traveling to Europe at Christmas, many cities experience a surge in pricing around the holidays. Accommodations can be just as expensive as the busy summer months – and many places fully booked by October.
Lodging in Frankfurt and Vienna can be very expensive during December. Booking hotels over the weekend is often more expensive than weekday stays.
That all said, there are some less expensive European Christmas destinations. Our top picks for cheap Christmas market breaks are Zagreb, Lisbon, Krakow and Budapest.
Planning a Europe Christmas Vacation
We’ve shared our leading tips for the foremost cities in Europe for Christmas. So, deciding where to go is now up to you!
Staying on top of the details for your plans to visit the best Christmas towns in Europe is key. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to keep track of all the specifics.
Finding Flights for Christmas Destinations in Europe
Most of the destinations on our list of the Best European cities to visit for Christmas are fairly easy to get to.
Finding affordable airfare during the busy Christmas travel season can be trying…but not impossible! Use our Guide to Finding Cheap Flights – then start your search on Skyscanner.
Booking Hotels in the Best Place in Europe for Christmas
Finding accommodations in popular European cities to visit during Christmas can be a tricky task. Hotels book up quickly and prices in the places with the most popular markets skyrocket.
It’s ideal to secure lodging as early as possible. Read our tricks for Finding the Best Hotels for Cheap – then start your search on Booking.com – like we do!
Start planning your trip to Europe for Christmas! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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