Inching closer towards the year-end, one can’t suppress the desire to revel in the grand celebrations at the romantic European cities for the Christmas holidays. December is the time when Christmas in Europe is coated with the best markets and thick layers of snow and looks prettier than ever. While Christmas makes for the perfect topping to end the year on a high, a European Christmas vacation presents all the reasons to celebrate moments amidst cheers, crackers, and chaos! Go partying hard in the pubs of Amsterdam, take a romantic ride with your partner in Prague, or stay in a glass igloo – European cities offer you Christmas celebrations in the most incredible manner ever!
Top Things To Do While Celebrating Christmas In Europe 2024
Let us take you through the alleys of the best European cities, where the warm aroma of gingerbread and the fragrance of Christmas trees mark the beginning of month-long festivities. Each city has its unique flavour, and you can start exploring activities during the month!
- Reykjavik, Iceland: A True Celebration Of The Festival
- Tromso, Norway: Glorious Holiday Celebrations
- Lapland, Finland: Eat The Mighty Feast
- Tallinn, Estonia: Enter The Wonderland
- Krakow, Poland: Indulge In The City’s Glitter
- Prague, Czech Republic: Explore The City’s Charm
- Cologne, Germany: Soak In The Festive Essence
- Copenhagen, Denmark: Shop Loads Of Goodies
- Innsbruck, Austria: Visit The Markets
- Gressoney Saint Jean, Italian Alps: Enjoy The Breathtaking Views
- Zagreb, Croatia: Live The Unique Experience
- Budapest, Hungary: Celebrate The Winter Festival
1. Reykjavik, Iceland: A True Celebration Of The Festival
Don’t be deceived by the size of this thinly populated island nation. Iceland erupts with joy and bonhomie during Christmas. Reykjavik, the capital city, has become a leading Christmas destination and looks straight out of a frame.
Highlights of Christmas in Reykjavik:
- The lighting of the Oslo Christmas tree is a tradition that has been practised for decades and marks the beginning of Christmas holiday preparations.
- Christmas creatures at Reykjavik Art Museum, Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and City Hall. They remain there until the Christmas festivities, narrating Icelandic folklore and making the Christmas holiday memorable.
- Winter Woods Wonderland at City Hall officially opens in December. The centrepiece is neatly placed among trees, and Christmas creatures can also be found there.
Also Read: Things To Do In Iceland
2. Tromso, Norway: Glorious Holiday Celebrations
The Northern Lights have glorified Tromso in front of the world. Still, the happening city also gives people ample reasons to await Christmas glitz, making it one of Europe’s top Christmas holiday destinations.
Plenty of outdoor activities, nightlife, and excellent local food make Tromso one of the perfect places to plan your Christmas in Europe.
Highlights of Christmas in Tromso: The spectacularly decked-out downtown, beautiful Christmas market, and live concerts are perfect for basking in the festivities.
Club your Christmas holiday tour with some of the popular attractions in Tromso, like Northern Lights chases, whale-watching safaris, photo safaris and excursions in the surrounding scenic landscape, and make it a lifetime trip.
3. Lapland, Finland: Eat The Mighty Feast
Evocative evenings shimmering on the spotless sheet of snow define a fairy tale Christmas holiday in Lapland- popularly known as the village of Santa. The town’s highlight is its spirited atmosphere and picturesque locale lit by stars and ice lanterns. Countryside cottages in this quaint village of Finland make for the perfect place to jazz up the Rovaniemi Christmas in Europe.
Food is one of the highlights of the festivity, leaving a lasting taste and feel. Some of the popular dishes of the Christmas season are pork roast, casseroles, rice puddings, and a variety of fish. Amidst the merriment and celebrations, Christmas carols are sung, goodwill gestures are exchanged, and finally, people call it a day with a relaxing sauna.
Highlights of Christmas in Lapland:
- Munch on Gingerbread, sip on Glögi – a spicy mulled wine and experience a wood-fired sauna.
- Lanterns made of snowballs, popularly known as ice lanterns, are widely used as decorations and are the perfect mood uplifter.
- Christmas mass at midnight, which is quite a Finnish thing!
Related Post: Christmas In Finland
4. Tallinn, Estonia: Enter The Wonderland
Tallinn is an ancient city epitomized by rustic charm and enchanting decoration. Walking past Tallinn’s medieval structures and streets in Estonia, one feels like having entered a wonderland.
Considered one of the best European cities for Christmas celebrations, Tallinn’s key attraction is its Victorian Christmas market.
Highlights of Christmas in Tallinn:
- Feast on famous delicacies like roasted pork, sauerkraut, blood sausages, gingerbread, marzipan, and local honey.
- The Christmas market opened on 18 November 2022 and will remain open until 7 January 2022. It is open from 10 am to 7 pm (every day).
Interestingly, Tallinn is home to the world’s first Christmas tree, erected in Tallinn’s Town Hall Square when the ritual began in 1441.
5. Krakow, Poland: Indulge In The City’s Glitter
The mystic city of Krakow looks more adorable as Christmas in Europe approaches. With a fresh dash of snow all over the place, imposing Gothic churches, and Baroque palaces, the picturesque city’s typical charm is just perfect.
The town’s architectural marvels, age-old traditions, glittering Christmas trees, and carols everywhere make Krakow one of the popular places to spend Christmas holidays in Europe. This Christmas, celebrate it the Polish way and get the real feel of white Christmas in Europe at its best.
Highlights of Christmas in Krakow:
- Watch out for the yearly Krakow Christmas Cribs contest held on the first Thursday of December at the city’s central Grand Square.
- Christmas markets in Europe, a popular sight during the month of December, take place in Krakow at Rynek Glowny Central Square. The market begins in the last two days of November and lasts until January.
Related Post: Christmas In Poland
6. Prague, Czech Republic: Explore The City’s Charm
One of the perfect days to explore the charming city amidst the chants of rum-pa-pum-pum and reindeer games, Prague brims with festivities during the Christmas holiday. Go sightseeing in Prague and stroll through the Christmas markets in Europe, like Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.
Prague is also known for serving some of the most authentic food in Europe; finding one isn’t difficult.
Highlights of Christmas in Prague:
- Don’t forget to explore the smaller yet well-organized markets at Republic Square, Havel’s market on Kampa Island, and the one on the square in front of St. George’s Basilica at Prague Castle.
- Classical concerts in churches and historical buildings are a must-visit.
- Attend the masses – The Afternoon Mass at Tyn Church at Old Town Square, Timings: 4 pm | The open-air Christmas Mass on a stage at the Old Town Square, Timings: 9 pm | Midnight Mass at Strahov Monastery and churches around Prague, admission is free
7. Cologne, Germany: Soak In The Festive Essence
The Rhine flows by the gorgeous beauty. What could be a better way to celebrate Christmas than going for a ride in the river, soaking in the city’s rustic charm, and listening to live music? Christmas markets in Cologne exude the festive essence and can be felt as soon as you smell fresh cinnamon biscuits, mulled wine, and baked apples! Furthermore, go on Christmas river cruises in Europe with your family for a memorable experience you will remember years later.
Highlights of Christmas in Cologne:
- The Christmas market at the cathedral is the most famous of several markets in Cologne.
- The Cologne Philharmonic, a concert venue, organizes live concerts to keep up the festive mood.
Also, visit Hamburg and Nuremberg, which are counted among the best European cities for Christmas celebrations.
Related Post: Places To Visit In Germany
8. Copenhagen, Denmark: Shop Loads Of Goodies
It is next to impossible to stay in Copenhagen and yet escape the spirit of Christmas because the capital city of Denmark provides one of the most sought-after Christmas holiday deals. Tivoli Gardens – where people assemble to celebrate and rejoice worldwide – is the perfect place to tune up the festive mood.
Of all the European Christmas markets, the Tivoli Gardens Christmas market is a must-visit during November and December. Chimes, carols, music, decorations, lights, and entertainment make the celebrations bigger.
Tivoli Gardens timings: 11 am – 11 pm (Monday to Thursday, Sunday), 11 am – 12 am (Friday & Saturday)
Highlights of Christmas in Copenhagen:
- Royal Copenhagen Christmas Tables – an exhibition by artists and celebrities in the Royal Copenhagen store at Strøget is a must-visit attraction.
- Visit the ice rink at Frederiksberg Runddel.
- Purchase Christmas goodies and gifts from Copenhagen Christmas markets.
- Savour delights like Smørrebrød & schnapps, white gløgg, and prawn-heavy open-faced sandwiches.
9. Innsbruck, Austria: Visit The Markets
Boasting one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, Innsbruck is a beautiful destination for the festive times. With all the decked-up Christmas trees, piles of gingerbread, wooden toys and hand-blown ornaments of glass around, Christmas couldn’t get any better. Hallstatt Christmas in Europe is also famous for its merriment and jovial celebrations.
To top up the festivities, the romantic Christmas market in the narrow medieval square close to the Golden Roof makes for a special attraction.
Highlights of Christmas in Innsbruck:
- Watch trumpeters playing carol tunes on the traditional 500-year-old Golden Roof.
- Relish Kiachln- advent doughnuts with cranberry sauce.
- Take a ride on the funicular up Nordkette Mountain to Hungerburg.
- While you are there, do not miss Vienna Christmas in Europe which is equally grand and glitzy.
Related Post: Austria In December
10. Gressoney Saint Jean, Italian Alps: Enjoy The Breathtaking Views
What could be better than spending Christmas holiday skiing, strolling through the ancient structures, and walking on a frozen lake? That’s what the entire arena of Gressoney Saint Jean in the Italian Alps area is peppered up with!
Another sought-after place to spend white Christmas in Europe, the Italian Alps area is gorgeously decorated with the rustic charm of yesteryear. There is also a beautiful Christmas market where natives and tourists gather to eat, drink, and rave!
Highlights of Christmas in Gressoney Saint Jean:
- Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Alps mountains from the market area.
- Make the most of your Christmas holidays by planning a skiing session in the Alps.
11. Zagreb, Croatia: Live The Unique Experience
Image Credit: Branko Radovanović for Wikimedia Commons
Wondering where to spend Christmas in Europe? One of Europe’s top cities to celebrate Christmas is Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Every nook and corner of this city is cherished with beautiful stalls, lights, specially designed European Christmas decorations, and open-air entertainment.
Highlights of Christmas in Zagreb:
- Live Music and an open DJ elevate the festive mood and uplift everyone’s spirit.
- Enjoy the traditional delicacies that line up in the streets as you opt for themed entertainment.
- The Ban Josip Jelačić Square: a vast Christmas tree is installed, and the fountain is transformed into a light display. You will also find conservatories serving food and drinks.
- Ice Park on King Tomislav Square: Glow your holiday in one of Zagreb’s most beautiful parks, get food and beverages, and music events. Don’t forget to enjoy skating in the ice rink.
Related Post: Things To Do In Croatia
12. Budapest, Hungary: Celebrate The Winter Festival
Image Credit: Top Budapest for Wikimedia Commons
Make sure you visit Hungary during your winter holidays to experience the Budapest Christmas Fair and Winter Festival at Vörösmarty Square. A unique experience – the grandeur plaza turns into a festive space – with traditional delicacies, wooden stalls, and local entertainment. Therefore, Budapest may be the best place to spend Christmas in Europe; you need to visit it this year.
Highlights of Christmas in Budapest:
- Try the honey cookies made from traditional Budapest recipes, cinnamon, and mulled wine. They’re a fragrant combination!
- Celebration with modern elements, including Flash Mobs, monumental light shows, and contemporary hand-craft products.
- Advent Feast Basilica is held with a community spirit in mind. Enjoy charity-boosting concerts and delicious meals.
This video picks the top 10 Christmas markets in Europe. Though, slightly different from the one that you saw above, this video too portrays the Christmas celebration in true taste!
Christmas Markets In Europe
1. Strasbourg Christmas Market
Strasbourg Christmas market is one of Europe’s oldest and most visited Christmas markets. It is held yearly in the mesmerizing French city at the majestic cathedral centre and never fails to impress any visitor. The whole Strasbourg city is illuminated with decorative lights that feast for the eyes.
This Christmas market is based on Alsatian traditions and started in 1570. This market hosts more than 500 exciting events that can be enjoyed while munching on the delicious pastries, spicy bread, and sweets that are offered here.
Location: Place Broglie, Strasbourg, France
Related Post: Christmas In France
2. Budapest Christmas Market
The Budapest Christmas market is one of the top 15 Christmas markets in Europe and takes place annually in Vorosmarty Square in the city centre. It is the most spectacular Christmas market in the world and is worth a visit. The central town transforms into a mesmerizing wonderland with quaint cottages spread across the street and over 100 wooden stalls.
The delicious aroma of cinnamon, wine, honey biscuits and roasted chestnuts fills the city air on Christmas Eve. Visitors also taste this place’s traditional delicacies, such as stuffed cabbage and pork knuckle.
3. Copenhagen Christmas Market
This Christmas market is held in the Nordic style at the Tivoli Gardens. The park’s pathways are filled with several street stalls offering unique commodities. The stalls sell a variety of decorations, artefacts and even hot drinks to keep the visitors warm during this cold month.
This Christmas market features many wooden houses, ornamental glasses, magic bells, and snow-covered Christmas trees, which allow visitors to experience a true Nordic-style Christmas. Visitors can even meet Santa’s reindeer. This market is held alongside a large Alpine village, which also features interesting activities like skiing, sledding, etc., which visitors can explore.
Related Post: Christmas In Denmark
4. Stockholm Christmas Market
This is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Sweden, and it takes place every year in Old Town. The area around the Stortorget Square is surrounded by red stalls which sell a variety of lip-smacking Swedish delicacies including eel, smoked sausages, elk meat, dry cured reindeer, and Nordic glogg which can be enjoyed while sipping on their authentic mulled wine.
A must-try for every visitor with a sweet tooth is the traditional ginger biscuit which is locally known as pepparkakor, these are freshly baked and sold in this market. While in this market, one can even consider buying many special ornamental art pieces and other beautiful handicrafts to take back home as a souvenir or gift for their loved ones after their European vacation.
You May Also Like To Read: Christmas In Sweden
Money can’t buy you happiness but you can buy a plane ticket and trip to Europe, and that’s kind of the same thing. How about celebrating this Christmas in Europe by visiting all the lovely places mentioned above? Europe is indeed beautiful, so how about visiting Europe when there are lights and gifts all around? While you’re there, don’t forget to share your memories with us.
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Cover Image Credit: Daniel Enchev for PxHere
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas In Europe
Which European country is best to visit in December?
Prague, Budapest, Netherlands, Berlin, and Italy are some of the best European countries to visit in December.
Which is the best Christmas market in Europe?
Strasbourg in France, Viennese Christmas Market, Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square in Prague, and Piazza Santa Croce in Florence are just a few of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
How is Christmas celebrated in Europe?
While there are multiple different ways Christmas Day in Europe is celebrated, usually people go for a Midnight Mass celebration followed by a grand meal. Others focus more on Christmas Day and gift-giving.
Which European city is best during Christmas?
Zagreb is one of the best cities to be present during Christmas due to a variety of reasons including delicious meals, ice skating and advent festival.
What is the biggest Christmas market in Europe?
Nuremberg in Germany is the biggest Christmas market in Europe, and in fact the entire world.
What date do Christmas markets start in Europe?
The best Christmas markets in Europe await you from 29th November.
Where is hot in December in Europe?
Canary Islands. In general, temperatures rise above 20 degrees, and sometimes go over 25, making the Canary Islands one of the warmest places in December in Europe.
A perpetual nature seeker, Amit is on a mission to explore the best of planet Earth. Much famed as the Whistling Hound, Amit’s is currently based out of Wroclaw in Poland, and is experiencing the best of his life in Eastern Europe and Scandinavia.
