Nowhere quite encapsulates the enchanting festive spirit like the towns and cities across mainland Europe.
Embracing the chilly weather and embracing their gothic charm, the continent, especially its northern regions, presents an ideal winter wonderland during this season.
From the grandeur of Vienna in Austria to the picturesque scenes of Gothenburg in Sweden, here are the European destinations that immerse themselves in the magic of Christmas unlike anywhere else.
Vienna, Austria
The splendid Austrian capital exudes an irresistible festive allure as the year draws to a close. While the towering Christmas tree and the iconic Christmas market set against the stunning backdrop of Vienna’s City Hall are definite must-visits, the Spittelberg market raises the bar even higher. Among the charming streets of the Biedermeier Quarter, visitors encounter delightful handicrafts and handcrafted sweaters showcased at the festive stalls, complementing the architectural splendor that appears tailor-made for this holiday season.
Hallstatt, Austria
Nestled on the banks of Hallstätter See, surrounded by majestic Alpine peaks, the town of Hallstatt enjoys UNESCO protection owing to its breathtaking landscape. The 16th-century townhouses, cobblestone pathways, and the almost-guaranteed snowfall during Christmas make it a quintessential destination for soaking up the festive atmosphere. Hallstatt’s Christmas market, centered around the Market Square, is nothing short of legendary. Imagine a radiant tree, a locally-crafted nativity scene, and stalls brimming with decorations, crafts, and mulled wine—a truly special and enchanting spot.
Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø, a cultural hub renowned for its stunning Arctic Cathedral hosting regular events, transforms into a must-visit destination during the festive season when daylight becomes a rare commodity in this city above the Arctic Circle. The streets glow with festive lights, while Christmas market stalls, including those near the Mack Brewery—the world’s most northerly brewery—abound. Visitors can savor a beer or hot chocolate from Rakettkiosken on the main square, complete with a warming fire pit, before ascending the cable car for potential sightings of the aurora borealis, painting the sky with breathtaking colors.
Colmar, France
Numerous captivating Christmas markets adorn Europe, yet few captivate the imagination or revel in a fairytale setting as Colmar does, nestled in the Alsace region of France. Within the city center, six themed markets interconnect through illuminated streets, featuring snug wooden chalets tightly packed together, resulting in an enchanting spectacle. Twice weekly, at 5 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays, a children’s choir graces the local canal, Petite Venise (Little Venice), singing carols and adding further holiday cheer.
Rudesheim, Germany
Set amidst the Rhine Valley’s wine-producing region, Rudesheim am Rhine stands as a top destination all year round. However, as night falls and Christmas approaches, the town, a short boat or train ride from Frankfurt, assumes a distinct festive ambiance. Arriving by riverboat, visitors can hop on the free shuttle to the Christmas Market of Nations, featuring stalls offering gifts and traditional festive fare from around the world. The town’s medieval architecture and narrow alleys ensure a timeless festive atmosphere, while sipping on a Rudesheimer coffee—a concoction of whipped cream, shaved chocolate, and brandy—provides the perfect warmth against the chill.
Bruges, Belgium
Once a bustling trading hub, Bruges’ UNESCO-protected medieval center transforms into a scene resembling gingerbread houses when adorned with festive lights. Annually, the Winter Glow festival envelops the entire city in a grand celebration featuring two Christmas markets, a captivating light trail, and a floating ice rink on Minnewater, the Lake of Love. Indulging in delicious Belgian hot chocolate paired with a waffle remains a supreme way to embrace the holiday spirit.
Gothenburg, Sweden
As Sweden’s ultimate Christmas destination, Gothenburg surprises visitors with its festive offerings, inviting them to brave the Scandinavian chill. The Liseberg Christmas Market stands out as the highlight. Situated in an amusement park celebrating its centenary in 2023, visitors can relish rides and sample delicacies from across the country, including pickled herring and glögg spiced wine. Exploring the city’s three-kilometer Lane of Lights, from Liseberg to the harbor, proves to be a delightful experience, especially during Luciatåg on December 13—a tradition inspired by the celebration of the winter solstice.
Tbilisi, Georgia
For those yearning to extend the Christmas festivities, Georgia—particularly its capital, Tbilisi—stands as the top choice. With the majority following the Georgian calendar, Christmas falls on January 7 instead of December 25, allowing festivities to continue into the New Year. The grand New Year tree outside the old Parliament building on Rustaveli Avenue and the nearby Christmas villages and markets epitomize Tbilisi’s festive highlights, enhanced by the icy weather and citywide light displays.
Valkenburg, Netherlands
Valkenburg, situated in the southern Netherlands, offers the usual European Christmas charms—lights, trees, stalls, and gluhwein—in a unique underground setting. The town’s Christmas Caves have gained international acclaim, housing a diverse array of stalls selling festive gifts and decorations. The larger Municipality Cave hosts one of Europe’s largest indoor Christmas markets, while the Velvet Cave, dating back centuries, served as a mine and shelter during World War II, adding historical depth to the festive experience.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Perched in Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi boasts various attractions, from dazzling displays of the northern lights to the indigenous Sámi traditions and Finland’s renowned sauna culture. As the year draws to a close, the town revels in its association with Santa Claus, offering visitors the chance to experience the magic of Christmas. While the Santa Claus village remains accessible year-round, the snow-covered town and the infectious cheer leading up to Christmas Day amplify its enchantment.
Wrocław, Poland
Regarded as one of Poland’s most splendid cities, Wrocław elevates its charm during Christmas. The city’s Christmas market sprawled across Plac Solny and Market Square boasts over 250 stalls, a vibrant fair, and captivating light displays. The gothic architecture adds to the Christmas allure, enveloping everyone in that special feeling unique to this time of year.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
The quintessentially German town in Bavaria boasts architectural beauty that exudes a Christmas atmosphere throughout the year. However, it’s the annual Reiterlesmarkt that truly sets it apart. Honoring the mythical figure of the “Reiterle,” said to have visited the town during winter for ages, this market revels in Christmas traditions and delights visitors with hearty food and warm drinks amidst a fantastical setting.
