Christmas destinations in Europe
Ready to discover the best Christmas destinations in Europe? Let’s start!
1. Alsace (France), a classic place to visit during Christmas
🗓️ Dates for Strasbourg Christmas Market 2025: from November 26th to December 24th.
Alsace had to be at the top of this list. This region of northeastern France is a true Christmas classic. The area’s main city, Strasbourg, has been named the capital of Christmas. In fact, the oldest and largest Christmas market in France is located in this city. It opened in 1570 and has more than 300 stalls.
The Christmas atmosphere won’t be the only thing that impresses you about Strasbourg. Its historic center was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988. The Strasbourg Cathedral dates to 1015 and is Gothic in style. It is one of the most impressive cathedrals I have ever seen. You’ll love it!
Another destination within Alsace worth visiting during Christmas (in fact at any time of the year) is Colmar, a small town that seems to be taken from a fairy tale. I visited Colmar during the summer but I don’t even want to imagine how magical it must be at Christmas.
In addition to Strasbourg and Colmar, there are many other charming little towns in Alsace that are just as beautiful and also host Christmas markets. These include Obernai, Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim.
2. Lille (France), my favorite Christmas destination in Europe
🗓️ Dates for Lille Christmas Market 2025: from November 29th to December 29th.
Let’s stay in France but this time we are going to the northwest of the country, Lille, capital of the Upper France region.
This destination is especially close to my heart because it’s where I studied abroad. I had the pleasure of living in Lille for several months, including December, when the city is filled with lights, the scent of vin chaud, and a magical atmosphere.
At the Christmas market, held in Place Rihour, you can sample treats like crêpes, gaufres, tartiflette, and raclette. Another highlight of spending Christmas in Lille is the enormous 50-meter-high ferris wheel set up in the Grand Place. I highly recommend going for a ride to enjoy sweeping views over the city. Just make sure to bundle up!
Lille is quite a small city, and its historic center can easily be explored in a single day. You can discover some of the best things to do in Lille! If you don’t have much time for your Christmas getaway, a trip to Lille can be an excellent choice. And since it’s so close to Belgium, you can also take day trips to different cities in the country.
3. Cologne (Germany), you will love the Christmas market near the cathedral
🗓️ Dates for Cologne Christmas Market 2025: from November 17th to December 23rd.
Let’s now head to the east of Germany and talk about Cologne, a city that I have also had the pleasure of visiting at Christmas. It’s absolutely beautiful during this time of year!
This German city is best known for the Cologne Cathedral, an incredible Gothic cathedral of impressive scale that was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996. It is the most visited monument in Germany.
At Christmas you will find up to seven Christmas markets scattered around the city. One of them takes place in Roncalliplatz, a square next to the cathedral. It has more than 100 stalls and a huge Christmas tree. Be sure to walk through all of them and try the specialties of the area.
4. Prague (Czech Republic), discover the Old City illuminated
🗓️ Dates for Prague Christmas Market 2025: from November 29th to January 6th.
If Prague is already famous for its beauty, its magic truly comes alive at Christmas. Many agree that it’s one of the best places to spend the holiday season in Europe.
It’s probably because, along with the incredible architecture of the historic center, there’s the charming Christmas tree and the numerous festive stalls that flood the Old Town Square every December.
I highly recommend climbing the tower of Prague’s Old Town Hall to see the city decorated from above, especially at night. Don’t miss the market at Wenceslas Square or the one at Prague Castle either.
5. Munich (Germany), visit its 14th century Christmas market
🗓️ Dates for Munich Christmas Market 2025: from November 24th to December 24th.
Let’s return to Germany, this time to Munich, one of the most beautiful cities in the country. If you haven’t been to Munich yet, December is a great time to visit.
One of the great attractions is the Christkindlmarkt, held in Marienplatz, the central square in Munich. In this Christmas market, which dates back to the 14th century, you will find many craft stalls, glühwein (mulled wine), traditional dishes and sweets. Another major highlight is the Christmas tree that stands right in the square.
6. London (United Kingdom), one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe
🗓️ Dates for London Christmas Market 2025: To be confirmed.
If London is an impressive city at any time of the year, imagine how beautiful it must be during Christmas, with its lights, markets, and festive atmosphere.
Celebrate Christmas like a true Londoner and go ice skating at Somerset House, see the incredible Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square or go shopping at Fortnum & Mason. Also, do not miss the lights of Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street or Covent Garden.
Another place to include in your visit to London during Christmas is Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. The famous park is filled with themed attractions, food stalls, Christmas markets and live music. You’ll have fun for sure!
Other markets that you can visit are Real Food Christmas Market (in King’s Cross), Greenwich Market or the one held next to London Bridge.
7. Vienna (Austria), an amazing Christmas destination in Europe
🗓️ Dates for Vienna Christmas Market 2025: from November 14th to December 26th.
Another European city with a lot of holiday spirit to travel to during Christmas is Vienna, Austria. The city’s main Christmas market, Christkindlmarkt, is held on Rathausplatz, the square where the town hall is located.
At the food stalls you will find sausages, goulash soup, roasted almonds, caramelized apples, etc. You will also find handmade products such as candles and soaps. Artist exhibits also brighten the streets.
8. Black Forest (Germany), charming towns and incredible nature
🗓️ Dates for Black Forest Christmas Market 2025: From late November to late December (depending on the location).
Another place that has a lot to offer during Christmas is the Black Forest in Germany. A few years ago, I took a trip to this region and absolutely loved it. If you’re looking for a destination that combines charming towns and nature, I highly recommend considering this option.
You’ll find Christmas markets in the main towns of the Black Forest. I recommend visiting the ones in my favorite villages: Gengenbach, Baden-Baden, and Freiburg. Another Christmas market you shouldn’t miss is the one held at Ravenna Gorge, a famous bridge in the region. It’s straight out of a fairy tale!
9. Rovaniemi (Finland), where Santa Clause is from
How would you like to spend Christmas in the land of Santa Claus, surrounded by reindeer and snow? If that sounds fun to you, I recommend visiting Rovaniemi, the main city in Finland’s Lapland region.
Just outside this Finnish town, you’ll find Santa Claus Village, a theme park open every day of the year where you can feel closer to Santa than ever before. It offers a variety of attractions, restaurants, cafés, and hotels. You can also stay in Rovaniemi and take a bus to Santa Claus Village.
Beyond Rovaniemi, this part of Finland has other great destinations perfect for celebrating the holiday season. A few years ago, I took a trip that included Iso-Syöte, Ruka, and Salla. It was amazing!
10. Budapest (Hungary), one of the most beautiful Christmas destinations in Europe
🗓️ Dates for Budapest Christmas Market 2025: To be confirmed.
Let’s head to Budapest (Hungary), one of my favorite discoveries in recent years and easily one of Europe’s most stunning cities. Before visiting, I knew Budapest had a reputation for beauty… but I didn’t expect it to be this breathtaking!
I went in the middle of summer, so I can only imagine how magical it must be in winter, especially at Christmas, with all the lights, markets, and festive vibes.
The main Christmas markets pop up in Vörösmarty Square and around St. Stephen’s Basilica, where you can indulge in Hungarian treats like lángos, sausages, kürtőskalács, and plenty of other sweets. Plus, the basilica hosts a nightly light show that’s not to be missed.
Another classic holiday activity here is ice skating in City Park, home to one of Europe’s oldest and largest outdoor rinks. It’s the perfect way to soak up the festive spirit!
11. Sofia (Bulgaria), an affordable Christmas destination in Europe
🗓️ Dates for Sofia Christmas Market 2025: To be confirmed.
Are you looking for an affordable Christmas destinations in Europe? If so, another city to consider is Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Perhaps you have never considered traveling to this city in Eastern Europe before, but even though I haven’t been there yet, I know several people who have been and have been pleasantly surprised.
Every Christmas, the Weihnachtsmarkt, a traditional German-style Christmas market, is set up in City Garden. Besides sampling Bulgarian treats, you’ll also find theater performances and live music. It’s not one of the most typical Christmas destinations, but I’m sure it will pleasantly surprise you.
12. Ghent (Belgium), one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium
🗓️ Dates for Ghent Christmas Market 2025: From December 4th to December 31st.
Any city in Belgium makes a great choice for a December trip. I recommend Ghent because, of the Belgian cities I’ve visited (Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges), it’s my favorite, although Bruges is stunning as well. The good news is that since they’re close to each other, you can easily visit both.
As I mentioned, Ghent struck me as a city full of charm, so I’m sure it must look absolutely beautiful at Christmas. Its main Christmas market features around 150 wooden cabins selling crafts, mulled wine, regional dishes, and more.
13. Salzburg (Austria), surrounded by snowy peaks
🗓️ Dates for Salzburg Christmas Market 2025: From November 20th to January 1st.
Vienna isn’t the only Austrian city to make this list of Christmas destinations. Salzburg certainly deserves a spot as well! This charming Austrian city is one of the country’s most popular places to visit during the holiday season.
Much of its magic comes from the Baroque architecture of the Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the stunning mountains that surround the city. Strolling through its streets, filled with lights and Christmas markets, feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
The city’s main Christmas market takes place around Salzburg Cathedral and dates back to the 15th century. In addition to the market, there are plenty of other festive events to enjoy throughout the season.
14. Wroclaw (Poland), you’ll be in a fairy tale
🗓️ Dates for Wroclaw Christmas Market 2025: To be confirmed.
We’re heading to Poland, but not to Warsaw or Krakow, instead, it’s Wroclaw! This southwestern Polish city is one of the country’s top Christmas destinations in Europe. Its Christmas market dates back to the 16th century and takes place right in the heart of the historic center.
The main market is held in The Market Square, with additional stalls at Plac Solny and along Świdnicka and Oławska streets. The market’s theme is fairy tales, so get ready to step into a truly magical atmosphere. And don’t forget to try the pierogi! Loved it!
15. Nuremberg (Germany), a more traditional approach to Christmas
🗓️ Dates for Nuremberg Christmas Market 2025: From November 28th to December 24th.
Here’s the fourth German destination on the list: Nuremberg. It’s pretty clear by now that Germany is the ultimate winner when it comes to Christmas spirit, right?
This city is home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. With more than 200 stalls selling handmade crafts, festive decorations, mulled wine, gingerbread, sausages, candied almonds, and more, it’s a feast for all the senses. The market is called Christkindlesmarkt and takes place in Hauptmarkt, the main square.
While you’re in Nuremberg, it’s also worth checking out these highlights: Market Square, the Church of Our Lady, St. Sebaldus Church, Schöner Brunnen (the Beautiful Fountain), St. Lorenz Church, Nuremberg Castle, and the Museum Bridge.
16. Reykjavik (Iceland), spend Christmas surrounded by the northern lights
How would you like to spend Christmas in Iceland? Sounds awesome to me. Reykjavik, despite being a less popular Christmas destination than other places in Europe, is still a safe bet.
If you choose the capital of Iceland, you can not only enjoy the charming Christmas atmosphere, but also take some very interesting day trips around the city or go see the northern lights.
The Christmas market is located in Ingolfur Square. In addition, during your visit to the city, it is also interesting to visit Laugaveugr Street, Hallgrimskirkja (Reykjavik’s church), the statue of Leif Eirikson or Lake Tjörnin.
17. Tallinn (Estonia), one of the most charming Christmas destinations in Europe
🗓️ Dates for Tallinn Christmas Market 2025: From November 21st to December 27th.
If you are looking for a unique European destination to visit during Christmas, Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, can be a great option.
Its medieval old town has a unique charm, especially at this time of year, when it’s filled with twinkling lights, wooden stalls, snow-covered rooftops, and a beautiful Christmas tree in Raekoja Plats (Town Hall Square).
At the Christmas market, voted one of the best Christmas markets in Europe on several times, they sell many artisan products and culinary delights.
You’ll also find an ice rink in the city, perfect for having a great time skating. If you choose this destination, you’ll have the chance to discover one of Europe’s most charming cities.
18. Vigo (Galicia), an amazing Christmas destination in Spain
If you feel like visiting Spain this Christmas, one destination that’s gained a lot of popularity in recent years is Vigo. During the holiday season, this Galician city turns into a dazzling light show—more than 400 streets are lit up!
In and around Plaza Compostela, you’ll find a giant ferris wheel, the Christmas market, a carousel, and a snow slide set up in the Eugenio González de Haz Gardens. There are also tourist trains, ice-skating rinks, and plenty of other attractions to enjoy.
If you’re planning to use your trip to Vigo as a chance to explore other parts of the region, don’t miss my articles on what to see in Galicia and where to stay in Galicia.
19. Madrid (Spain)
🗓️ Dates for Madrid Christmas Market 2025: To be confirmed.
Madrid is a classic Christmas destination for those looking to visit Spain. The city comes alive with street lights, ice skating rinks, and cozy cafés serving hot chocolate with churros. Don’t miss the traditional flea market in Plaza Mayor. If you’re traveling with children, Cortilandia at El Corte Inglés in Preciados is a must-see.
Besides the Christmas festivities, take the opportunity to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. Our Madrid in 3 days travel guide is perfect for a weekend getaway. However, be prepared, as Madrid is bustling this time of year, so book a place to stay in well in advance!
20. Copenhagen (Denmark)
🗓️ Dates for Copenhagen Christmas Market 2025: To be confirmed.
Another great European destination for a Christmas trip is Copenhagen, a city that transforms at this time of year to offer visitors an unforgettable experience. Here, traditional customs blend with the festive spirit to create a truly unique atmosphere.
The one place you absolutely can’t miss during your Christmas getaway is Tivoli Gardens, home to the city’s main market. Be sure to try glögg, a traditional spiced drink, and æbleskiver, a classic Danish treat. And don’t skip the Christmas market at Nyhavn either.
21. Andorra
🗓️ Dates for Andorra Christmas Market 2025: To be confirmed.
Our Christmas trip last year was to Andorra, and I think it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a last-minute getaway. For us it’s close by and has plenty to offer.
It’s true that Andorra doesn’t have one of the most spectacular Christmas atmospheres in Europe, but it’s still a great destination for those who want to combine a bit of festive cheer with skiing and shopping.
We went at the beginning of December, just after the first snowfalls, so we were able to hit the slopes. Visiting the country’s most beautiful villages covered in snow was a real highlight.
In Andorra la Vella, a Christmas market is held in Plaça del Poble as part of El Poblet de Nadal, a sort of Christmas village that, in addition to stalls, features live music and children’s workshops. The city is also full of lights and other festive decorations.
22. Zurich
🗓️ Dates for Zurich Christmas Market 2025: from November 21st to December 23rd/24th.
Switzerland is a country that fascinates me, and although I must admit I enjoy its nature more than its cities (which I also like), Zurich at Christmas seems like an amazing plan. The Old Town is beautiful, and at this time of year, the lights decorating the streets and the scent of mulled wine and cinnamon on every corner make it even more cozy.
The Christmas markets you shouldn’t miss are the one in Niederdorf, the oldest in the city; the market at Sechseläutenplatz, next to the Opera House; and the Christkindlimarkt, located by the main train station. This one also features a 15-meter-tall Christmas tree. Be sure to try Swiss delights like fondue or raclette.
Another main attraction is the famous “Singing Christmas Tree,” found at Werdmühleplatz, where children and adults climb up to sing carols together.
If you’re planning to visit the city, don’t miss my guide to the must-see sights in Zurich in one day, along with my tips on where to stay in Zurich.
Map of best places to spend Christmas in Europe
In the following map I have pointed out all the Christmas destinations in Europe mentioned in this article, so you can get an idea of the location of all of them.
If you want to take a trip during the Christmas holidays but aren’t necessarily looking for a strong festive atmosphere, check out my selection of December travel destinations, where you’ll find plenty of different ideas.
I hope this article on the best places to spend Christmas in Europe has been helpful in planning your trip for this time of year.
If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to leave a comment or send me an email. Until next time!
2 Responses
Wonderful information and descriptions! Keep it up!
Thank you, Karla!